George Goodsir Charitable Trust

The George Goodsir Charitable Trust is a UK-based generalist grant-maker established to honor the legacy of philanthropist George Goodsir, delivering public benefit through modest financial support to individuals and organizations, primarily registered charities. Rooted in values of inclusivity, practical compassion, and trustee-led discretion, it prioritizes improving quality of life for vulnerable groups via straightforward, low-bureaucracy funding that enables hobbies, sports, welfare, and crisis response without rigid strategies.

It focuses on four core themes: enabling disabled people to pursue hobbies or sports (e.g., grants to The Orpheus Centre for creative opportunities, Aerobility for aviation experiences, Riding for the Disabled, and Disabled Sailors Association); supporting homeless services (e.g., Night Watch); aiding haemophilia sufferers; and providing welfare for acting professionals (e.g., The Maverick Theatre Company). Funding also extends to elderly needs, emergency appeals like DEC Ukraine, and community groups such as Westerham Hall and The Emily Ash Trust, blending long-term support with responsive aid for multifaceted social challenges.

Eligible applicants include UK-registered charities and community groups of small to medium size (modestly resourced preferred), with no geographic restrictions across the UK, income thresholds, or religious limits; individuals are occasionally supported. Applications are welcomed unsolicited via letter to Chair David Moore, detailing the organization, project, and funding needs—no forms or portals required.

Typical grants range from £1,000 to £25,000 (often £5,000–£15,000) for projects, core costs, capital, revenue, or unrestricted use. Decisions occur on a rolling basis at trustee meetings as needed, with several months' processing time. Distinctively, its niche fusion of disability sports, homelessness, haemophilia, and arts welfare—coupled with pragmatic flexibility—differentiates it from broad or specialized funders, ideal for targeted, impactful interventions.