Robertson Trust

The Trust funds work that seeks to prevent or reduce poverty and associated trauma in Scotland, aligned to one or more of its four themes. Supported causes include poverty and hardship, mental health, education and skills, employment, children and young people, and community development. Grants can cover core costs, project delivery, salaries and equipment. Through its Big Change That Lasts Fund, the Trust also supports feasibility studies, research, advocacy and policy change focused on systemic issues. All funded activity must take place in Scotland and benefit Scottish communities. Priority beneficiaries include children, young people, older people, women, disabled people, carers, refugees, ethnic minority communities, rural communities, homeless people and those who are unemployed. The Trust is particularly interested in holistic interventions that address financial hardship, educational exclusion, employment barriers and childhood adversity.

Registered charities active in Scotland are eligible to apply for Small and Large Grants. For the Big Change That Lasts Fund, asset-locked community interest companies, housing associations and credit unions may also apply. Applicants must have at least three unconnected trustees, recent independently examined or audited annual accounts, and a bank account requiring two unconnected signatories. A safeguarding policy is required if working with children or vulnerable adults, and a policy on equity and diversity is needed for the Big Change That Lasts Fund. The Trust supports organisations of all sizes, from small local groups to larger charities, as long as their work is focused on preventing or reducing poverty and trauma in Scotland.

The Trust does not fund capital works or building projects. Through its Big Change That Lasts Fund, it does not support direct project delivery, instead focusing on feasibility, research, advocacy and policy change. Activities that fall outside the Trust's poverty and trauma focus are not considered. Retrospective costs are also excluded.

The Trust offers multi-year grants, typically for three years and up to five years for Large Grants. It funds both core costs and project costs, and welcomes unsolicited applications. The Trust takes a relationship-focused approach, working closely with grantees and involving people with lived experience in its grant-making processes.