Christopher and Henry Oldfield Trust

The Trust funds a wide range of causes including economic and community development, employment, arts, culture, heritage, science, environment, and conservation. Specific priorities include reducing offending and reoffending, promoting entrepreneurship among young and disadvantaged people, and tackling homelessness, addiction, and poverty. They support projects, capital costs, bursaries for individuals, and capacity building. Geographically, the focus is on Kent and Medway, although they may consider national initiatives that align with their objectives.

Eligible applicants include registered charities and community groups. The Trust prioritises organisations that support children, young people, disabled individuals, the elderly, and at-risk communities. They favour established charities with a strong track record and an entrepreneurial approach. No specific income thresholds are stated, but applicants should be able to demonstrate community relevance and financial stability.

The Trust avoids routine unrestricted funding and emergency aid. It does not support projects that offer only temporary relief without a clear pathway to independence, rehabilitation, or measurable outcomes. Grant-making that does not align with the Trust’s emphasis on strategic interventions, innovation, and long-term transformation is also excluded.

The Trust provides grant types including project costs, capital expenditure, bursaries for individuals, and capacity building. They welcome unsolicited applications and favour established charities with a strong track record and entrepreneurial elements. The Trust forms relational partnerships with grantees and emphasises outcomes-first funding blending social justice, enterprise, and rehabilitation.