Shanly Foundation

The Shanly Foundation, established in 1994 by property developer Michael Shanly as the charitable arm of the Shanly Group, drives practical, hands-on philanthropy to strengthen communities in Southeast England, where its businesses operate. Inspired by the founder's own challenges, it emphasizes long-term tangible change through agile, responsive giving, relationship-building, and direct trustee involvement in decisions. Core values of local stewardship and measurable impact are reflected in its unique integration with the Shanly Group—complete with conflict protocols—and a pioneering perpetual funding model, where future grants are sustained by transferred business profits, ensuring enduring support.

It prioritizes four themes: education and special needs (e.g., alternative schooling like Beech Lodge), healthcare (hospices, wellbeing for disabled), youth programmes, and environmental conservation (tree planting). Funding targets children, young people, elderly, disabled individuals, and vulnerable groups via projects, core costs, unrestricted/multi-year grants, capital, revenue, or emergency relief—such as £185,000+ rapid COVID aid to 100+ grassroots groups. Specific pots include Action Against Homelessness, construction training, and eco-grants, favoring practical, community-driven initiatives with lasting benefits.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities or community groups (in existence 12+ months with a bank account) operating in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Hertfordshire, Surrey, Sussex, or Greater London; no income thresholds or religious restrictions apply, and unsolicited applications are welcomed. Typical grants range £5,000–£50,000 (up to £100,000 multi-year), awarded monthly via online portal after eligibility check—no deadlines, but submit early. Distinctives include Shanly Group business support for grantees, safeguarding emphasis, and top UK giving rankings, setting it apart for "rebuilding lives" through focused, needs-led local investment.