Gerald Micklem Charitable Trust

The Gerald Micklem Charitable Trust, established in 1988 by the will of G.H. Micklem C.B.E., is a grant-making trust dedicated to advancing public benefit through targeted support for disadvantaged individuals and communities, particularly in Hampshire and West Sussex. Its mission emphasizes improving quality of life via substantive, impactful projects that foster social inclusion, independence, and wellbeing, guided by strong governance, ethical investment, and a commitment to charities delivering direct services locally. With a distinctive local and thematic focus, it prioritizes adults and children with physical or learning disabilities, carers (especially young carers) of the elderly or disabled, hospices, medical conditions, elderly care (including Alzheimer’s and dementia), and environmental or wildlife initiatives.

The Trust funds project-based work and core service delivery costs for organizations serving these beneficiaries, as seen in grants to groups like Rose Road Association (disabled youth), SeeAbility (learning disabilities and sight loss), Caring Together (carer support), Tuppenny Barn (environmental programs), and Hft (adults with learning disabilities). It favors well-governed charities of varying sizes whose grants enable long-term change, typically £8,000–£15,000.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities providing direct services in Hampshire or West Sussex; national charities are seldom supported unless operating locally. Applications are by postal letter only (no email or forms), including latest accounts, sent to Mrs. S.J. Shone at Bolinge Hill Farm, Buriton, Petersfield, Hampshire GU31 4NN, with an annual deadline of 30th November for early-year trustee meetings. Enquiries welcome by email; no acknowledgements unless further info or award needed.

Exclusions include individuals, non-UK charities, churches, general education/schools (except for disabled children), performing arts, museums, drug/alcohol counselling, homelessness, overseas aid, medical research, standalone mental health, or disadvantaged youth without disability links. This deliberate focus distinguishes it as a reliable funder for local disability, carer, elderly, hospice, medical, and environmental causes.