Gray Trust

The Gray Trust is a charitable incorporated organisation established in July 2020, continuing a historic legacy of social welfare through grants for general charitable purposes and direct provision of accommodation at Sherwood House and its cottages for vulnerable people, particularly the elderly and disadvantaged. Rooted in the parishes of Linby and Papplewick, its mission emphasises compassion, practical support, and community welfare, guided by robust governance including safeguarding, equity, and financial controls. Distinctively, it blends flexible grant-making with property-based services, prioritising stewardship of assets to address exclusion and need.

It funds a broad range of beneficiaries—children, young people, elderly individuals, people with disabilities, other charities, voluntary groups, and the general public—supporting core costs, revenue funding, building maintenance, and operational needs, with a flagship focus on Sherwood House for sheltered accommodation. Thematic priorities include social welfare, housing for those in need, and local community services, favouring ongoing support over thematic programmes.

Eligible applicants are limited to UK-registered charities and community groups based in Linby, Papplewick, or immediate surroundings, with a preference for small, locally rooted organisations; larger national entities are not supported. Funding is invite-only—no unsolicited applications or public processes—with decisions made at unpublicised trustee meetings and no fixed deadlines.

Typical grants range from £100 to £10,000, mainly for core operations and property support rather than large projects. Exclusions include non-local activities and open calls; its hybrid model of grants plus direct housing, hyper-local focus, and governance strength uniquely position it as a stable, inclusive funder for vulnerable groups in its core area.