Forrester Family Trust
About This Funder
The Forrester Family Trust, established in 1986 by the Forrester family, is an independent charitable foundation dedicated to empowering small charities in England and Wales to foster a just and equitable society. Its mission focuses on unlocking change for people facing significant disadvantage, particularly by funding overlooked quality-of-life improvements where state and commercial services fall short. Guided by principles of grant-making rigour, investment in well-run organisations, impact measurement, and responsible endowment stewardship, the Trust emphasises charities with clear theories of change, strong governance, volunteer involvement, and a track record of community impact. It stands out for its flexible annual thematic shifts, willingness to take measured risks, public disclosure of grantees, and blend of strategic philanthropy with accountability.
The Trust funds four main strands: annual themed grants (e.g., 2025–26 on rehabilitating imprisoned and formerly imprisoned offenders, up to £600,000 total); small grants up to £10,000 for grassroots, volunteer-led groups; disaster relief (no direct applications); and paused three-year grants resuming in 2027. Support covers project funding, core costs, and unrestricted grants addressing multiple disadvantages, such as past focuses on deaf support and hardship relief.
Eligible applicants are charities registered in England and Wales with incomes under £5 million (themed grants) or £250,000 (small grants). Applications via online form only during windows—no advance enquiries or other formats—with required documentation including impact articulation, governance evidence, and accounts. Typical grants range £10,000–£40,000 (themed) or up to £10,000 (small), paid within three months. Next deadlines: themed 1–30 September 2025; small 1–31 December 2025. It excludes non-UK charities, those over income thresholds, capital projects (not highlighted), and lacks religious restrictions, differentiating through evidence-based, responsive funding for emerging small charities.
Frequently Asked Questions about Forrester Family Trust
How much funding does Forrester Family Trust provide?
Forrester Family Trust typically provides grants ranging from £10,000 - £40,000.
Is Forrester Family Trust accepting applications?
Yes, Forrester Family Trust is currently open to applications from eligible charities.
Where does Forrester Family Trust fund charities?
Forrester Family Trust funds charities operating in UK.
How do I apply for funding from Forrester Family Trust?
Use Fundermatcher to check if your charity is a good match for Forrester Family Trust, then access detailed application guidance, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Our AI assistant can help you draft a compelling application.