Charlotte Heber-Percy Charitable Trust

The Charlotte Heber-Percy Charitable Trust, established by deed on 1 July 1981 and named after its ongoing trustee, is a generalist funder dedicated to advancing a broad spectrum of charitable purposes across the UK. With absolute trustee discretion over income and capital, it embodies flexible, inclusive philanthropy, guided by prudent stewardship, robust governance in safeguarding, investments, and risk management, and a commitment to high charitable standards. Its distinctive approach prioritizes responsiveness to diverse appeals without rigid themes, enabling positive social change through trustee-led decisions.

The trust supports wide-ranging causes, including animal welfare, arts and museums, education and children, environmental conservation (e.g., Earth Trust, World Land Trust), medical initiatives like hospices and cancer care, international efforts, community projects, health and social care, capital development, training, and aid for disadvantaged groups. Beneficiaries encompass children, older people, those with health issues or caring responsibilities, minorities, and under-represented communities, funding both grassroots and strategic activities nationwide.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities of any size or income, operating anywhere in the UK, with a noted preference for Gloucestershire-based or serving organizations but no strict geographic limits. Applications are unsolicited written letters submitted anytime on a rolling basis, reviewed quarterly by trustees in ad hoc meetings; only successful applicants are notified, with decisions typically within months and no preliminary enquiries needed.

Typical grants range from £1,000 to £10,000 (most £3,000–£5,000), occasionally £200–£50,000 for revenue, core costs, projects, or capital. With no explicit exclusions beyond non-charities, no religious restrictions, or funding continuity, its hallmark is unparalleled flexibility and discretion, ideal for compelling cases across sectors.