Millfield House Foundation

The Foundation funds policy and advocacy work addressing the drivers of poverty. This includes research, campaigning, capacity building, training, and policy development. It supports disadvantaged groups across Tyne and Wear, County Durham, Teesside, and Northumberland. The Foundation is explicit in its focus on structural change rather than direct services, and it prioritises evidence-led approaches that can influence public debate and decision-making. All funded work must align with its strategic priorities of tackling poverty and inequity in the region.

Eligible organisations are UK-registered charities, typically medium-sized with proven policy influence, based in or serving North East England. The Foundation works with organisations that have a strong track record in advocacy and research. It does not set strict income thresholds, but grassroots groups or national giants are less likely to be a fit. The Foundation prioritises organisations that can demonstrate a clear connection to the region and a capacity to drive systemic change for disadvantaged communities.

The Foundation does not fund capital projects, direct welfare provision, one-off activities, or work unrelated to its strategic priorities. It also does not support frontline service delivery, as its focus is on policy and civic infrastructure rather than direct services. Applications for activities that fall outside these parameters are not considered.

Grants are unrestricted core funding, awarded through a trust-based, relational approach. The Foundation works by invitation only, selecting pre-seeded partners for long-term collaboration. It nurtures ongoing dialogue with funded organisations, prioritising partnership over transactional grantmaking. This model allows for flexible support that adapts to the needs of the work.