Roger Counter Foundation

The Roger Counter Foundation, established in 2007 by Bournemouth property developer Roger Counter following his 2006 diagnosis with Burkitt’s lymphoma, is dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by lymphoma through funding medical research, scholarships, awareness campaigns, and direct patient support. Rooted in the founder’s lived experience, it emphasizes innovative, evidence-based approaches to advance understanding, treatment, and cures for lymphatic cancers, while empowering patients and families via information networks, buddy schemes, and hardship relief. Its values prioritize strategic impact, partnerships with reputable organizations, and long-term commitments over broad or small-scale efforts.

The foundation exclusively funds lymphoma-specific initiatives, including research grants, professional scholarships (e.g., with the British Society of Haematology for NHS haematologists), public education for early diagnosis, and core infrastructure like specialist nurse posts at hospices or expanded services at Lymphoma Action. Beneficiaries are primarily UK lymphoma patients, families, and young people in acute need, with grants supporting patient organizations, medical charities, and capacity-building for measurable outcomes in care and support.

Eligible applicants are limited to UK-registered charities and academic institutions operating UK-wide (with roots in Bournemouth/Dorset), favoring established medium-to-large entities with proven lymphoma expertise; unsolicited applications are not accepted—invitations only via networks. Typical grants range from £50,000 to £250,000, often multi-year for high-impact projects, with ad hoc trustee decisions and no fixed deadlines.

Distinctive for its narrow lymphoma focus—unlike general cancer funders—it avoids broader health issues, prioritizing transformative infrastructure and sector leadership over grassroots or unrelated causes, ensuring deep, direct benefits for those living with the disease.