Quaker Housing Trust Limited

The trust funds capital works and equipment through its capital grants and loans, and feasibility studies and research through its project development grants. Priority is given to projects that provide housing for older people, organisations working with people who have No Recourse to Public Funds, and housing initiatives that support people from minoritised groups. These groups include LGBTQ+ people, Black and other ethnically minoritised people, people living with disabilities, refugees and asylum seekers, prison leavers and care leavers. Geographically, the trust prioritises projects in the East of England, Southwest England (Somerset, Devon, Cornwall) and Wales, as these areas have been underrepresented in recent award rounds. The trust operates across the UK, but these regions receive special attention. It supports a variety of housing models, including supported accommodation and property acquisition or refurbishment, all aimed at providing homes for vulnerable people.

Only registered charities are eligible to apply for funding. The trust does not fund individuals directly, nor does it support self-help groups, fully mutual co-operatives, cohousing groups, community groups or faith groups. Organisations must be working to provide or improve housing for vulnerable people, with a focus on the priority groups outlined above. The trust particularly welcomes applications from smaller charities that may struggle to access mainstream finance. There is no religious requirement for applicants; the trust is Quaker-founded but funds charities of any background that align with its mission.

The trust does not fund individuals, self-help groups, fully mutual co-operatives, cohousing groups, or housing that is sold to occupants or rented for profit. Stand-alone energy efficiency projects, such as solar panels or insulation, are excluded. Core costs, salaries, and project delivery costs are not funded through either programme. Projects where lottery grant money is excessive may also be declined. The trust does not support housing that is used as an investment property.

Funding is provided through two mechanisms: capital grants and loans for building acquisition, refurbishment and equipment, and project development grants for feasibility studies and research. The trust accepts unsolicited applications and considers proposals that align with its mission and priorities. It typically funds one-off projects rather than ongoing costs, and does not provide core funding or salaries. The trust values partnership and works closely with grantees throughout the project lifecycle.