Lewin Trust

The Lewin Trust, an independent grant-making charity established in 2021 and registered with the Charity Commission in 2022 (no. 1197855), channels philanthropic donations to combat poverty and inequality through early intervention, breaking cycles of dependence by empowering young children aged 0-5 and their families. Governed by trustees and supported by a small professional team, it emphasizes independence, measurable impact, evidence-based practice, and long-term systemic change, fostering reflective partnerships with grantees via site visits and policy reviews to maximize effectiveness.

It prioritizes projects delivering targeted early years interventions—such as direct support for children in deprivation, parenting programs, and community-led services—that promote resilience and the best start in life. Funding supports both UK-based work (59% of 2024 grants) and overseas efforts via UK charities in areas of need, favoring holistic models addressing child poverty with sustained outcomes.

UK-registered charities with annual income under £5 million are eligible, regardless of specific UK regions, provided they secure co-funding and demonstrate strong governance, safeguarding, and impact. Typical multi-year grants (£10,000–£50,000 annually, up to three years, covering up to 50% of project or core costs) follow a two-stage process: Expression of Interest (EOI) followed by full application, with pre-advice available; next EOI deadline is Thursday 26 June 2025, decisions at quarterly trustee meetings (July, November, February).

Distinctively, it avoids property purchases, capital works, or relief-only aid, instead offering accessible, burden-light applications and collaborative monitoring to small/medium charities delivering innovative, independence-focused early intervention—setting it apart with its sharp thematic lens and commitment to sector learning.