Limbourne Trust

The Limbourne Trust, a UK-registered grant-giving charity established in 2006 by four trustees including Elisabeth Anne Thistlethwayte, pursues broad charitable objectives to advance education, protect health, relieve poverty and distress, and safeguard the environment. Its mission emphasizes challenging oppression and inequality by supporting economically, politically, or socially disadvantaged groups unable to fully participate in society, guided by principles of maximum public benefit, trustee discretion, and adaptive responses to evolving needs. With a substantial endowment generating investment income, the Trust prioritizes impactful, sustainable projects through rigorous governance and professional advice, distinguishing itself by blending social equity with environmental innovation.

It funds community projects aiding vulnerable or disadvantaged communities, environmental conservation and protection (e.g., Surfers Against Sewage, The Conservation Volunteers), cultural education in literature, music, drama, and dance, research into renewable energy and organic farming, and initiatives advancing sustainability. Support extends to health (e.g., eating disorder charities like Beat), poverty relief, and well-being activities benefiting the general public, with grants covering project delivery, core costs, and occasional capacity building for organizations only—no individuals.

Eligible applicants are exclusively UK-registered charities, primarily small to medium-sized (annual income ~£100,000–£1,500,000) based in England and Wales, though governing documents allow worldwide scope. Unsolicited applications are not accepted; trustees identify and approach recipients at their discretion via adhoc meetings, with no deadlines, forms, or open rounds. Typical grants range £5,000–£30,000 annually (often £10,000–£25,000), including multi-year commitments. Exclusions include individuals, large national charities, capital projects, and emergency relief; its standout flexibility, dual social-environmental focus, and proactive selection process set it apart for charities delivering deep, barrier-breaking change.