Forever Manchester

The trust funds a wide range of causes including children and youth work, education and skills development, mental and physical health support, activities for older people, community development and environmental projects. Some programmes focus on specific themes such as enhancing social mobility for young people under 30, improving access to holiday food and activity schemes for children with disabilities or those experiencing food poverty, and tackling health inequalities through mental health support and hospital at home initiatives. Supported work takes place across Greater Manchester, with some programmes focused on specific areas such as Stockport, Denton, Hyde, Wythenshawe, Didsbury, Withington and Fallowfield.

The trust supports registered charities, charitable incorporated organisations (CIOs), community interest companies (CICs), unincorporated associations and grassroots community groups. It prioritises organisations that are based in and work across Greater Manchester. Beneficiaries include children, young people, families, older people and ethnic minority communities. Some funds are aimed particularly at groups with an annual income described qualitatively as small, with a lower turnover threshold.

The trust does not fund activities that have already taken place or been paid for, contributions to major appeals, activities promoting political or religious beliefs, or work that should be provided by statutory services. It also excludes general capital appeals, large building projects, one-off events or materials with short-term impact, grants to individuals (including respite care, trips and holidays), and profit-making activities. One fund does not accept applications from sports clubs and groups.

The trust offers both single-year and multi-year grants depending on the programme. It meets core costs and project costs, and can support salaries, equipment and training. Match funding is not generally required, though some programmes allow a portion of the grant to be used for core organisational costs. It welcomes unsolicited applications and operates via distinct themed or geographically focused funds.