John Bristow and Thomas Mason Trust

The Trust funds a broad range of local initiatives that directly benefit residents of Charlwood, Hookwood, and Lowfield Heath. Support includes personal grants for education, illness, disability, distress, or financial hardship, as well as educational bursaries. Organisational projects in health, poverty relief, recreation, community development, culture, heritage, environment, housing, and religious activities are also considered, provided the benefits reach parish residents. The Trust can fund core costs, project costs, and facilities such as pavilions. It prioritises practical support that makes a tangible difference to everyday life in the community.

Individual residents of the historic Charlwood parish (including Charlwood, Hookwood, and Lowfield Heath) are eligible, particularly children, young people, elderly and disabled residents. Community groups, voluntary bodies, registered charities, schools, and sports clubs with a direct connection to the parish may also apply. Exceptional grants may be made to external organisations if the benefits accrue locally. There is no income limit, and the Trust is suited to small and medium-sized local organisations. No religious restriction applies. The Trust welcomes applications from both individuals and organisations.

The Trust has no published exclusions beyond its strict geographic focus. It does not fund activities that do not directly benefit residents within the historic parish boundaries of Charlwood, Hookwood, and Lowfield Heath. There are no religious restrictions or other blanket exclusions; however, the Trust prioritises practical, locally impactful initiatives.

The Trust supports core costs, projects, and capital items such as facilities. It operates with a flexible and discreet process, valuing practical support over rigid programmes. The Trust welcomes unsolicited applications and is guided by locally appointed trustees with deep knowledge of the parish and its needs.