Childhood Trust

The Trust funds work in London that supports children and young people facing poverty and hardship. Its grant programmes cover a broad range of causes, including physical and mental health, community development, education and skills. The four stated priorities are that children are healthy, resilient, safe and confident. Grants can support project delivery, core costs and capital works, so charities can use funding where it is most needed, whether that means running a service, maintaining essential infrastructure or improving facilities. The Trust seeks evidence-led interventions that meet both practical needs and emotional wellbeing.

Registered charities based in or working across London are eligible to apply. The Trust does not fund individuals, so applications must come from constituted organisations rather than people acting alone. The beneficiaries must be children and young people living in London. While the Trust supports a range of organisations, its programmes are differentiated by income, meaning the size of a charity may influence which funding stream is appropriate. The key requirement is that the work delivers clear benefits to London's children.

The Trust does not fund individuals, including hardship grants or educational bursaries. It also excludes projects primarily focused on advancing political ideologies or promoting religious beliefs, worship or proselytising. Other exclusions cover repayment of loans or debts, accommodation for homeless children or families, applications from government bodies, and childcare provision where there is no evidence of additional need.

The Trust makes single-year grants and requires match funding from grantees, meaning awarded amounts are matched by other contributions. It combines grantmaking with matched fundraising, and accepts unsolicited applications from eligible charities. Grants can be used for project delivery, core costs or capital works.