Roselands Trust

The Roselands Trust is an independent grant-making charity founded in 2006 and formally constituted in 2014, based in South Lakeland, with a mission to support "the little things that make a difference" for vulnerable groups in Cumbria and North Lancashire. Rooted in grassroots philanthropy by local founders, it emphasizes modesty, community engagement, sustainability, and nimble responses to needs like those during COVID-19, partnering closely with Cumbria Community Foundation (CCF) for distribution. Its ethos trusts local expertise to foster lasting wellbeing through targeted, practical interventions.

The Trust prioritizes alleviating disadvantage among older adults, people with disabilities, learning difficulties, and mental health challenges, funding social care, health therapies, respite holidays, exercise classes, community events, and farm-based training (e.g., Growing Well, Sense services, Revitalise holidays). Grants cover project costs, core funding, capital items like equipment, and capacity building, focusing on grassroots initiatives that enhance independence, social connection, and quality of life.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities and community groups based in or serving Cumbria and North Lancashire, with a preference for smaller, local organizations showing strong community impact; no income thresholds or religious restrictions apply. Unsolicited applications are not accepted directly—apply via CCF's Roselands Trust Fund online form on a rolling basis (decisions up to 12 weeks, faster for urgents), typically awarding £1,000–£5,000 annually, occasionally more if pre-discussed. Distinctively, it avoids broad thematic funding, shunning non-local or large-scale projects in favor of modest, place-based partnerships and adaptive support for hard-to-reach beneficiaries.