Sheriffs' and Recorders' Fund

The Sheriffs' and Recorders' Fund, a London-based charity established in 1808 by the Sheriffs of the City of London, focuses on the rehabilitation and resettlement of prison leavers and their families, embodying principles of second chances, dignity, and reoffending prevention. Rooted in the City’s justice traditions via the Old Bailey, its distinctive approach emphasises targeted, practical grants based on verified need, close collaboration with probation officers, and long-term community impact, distinguishing it as a niche player in London’s ex-offender support landscape with a history of probity and independence from statutory funding.

It prioritises relief from poverty, education/training, and reoffending prevention through small grants for essentials like clothing, job interview attire, household items (beds, fridges), tools of trade, training fees, and ID documents essential for employment and services. The Fund also partners with specialist agencies for in-prison rehabilitation projects, including vocational programmes to boost employability, targeting vulnerable ex-offenders and families at high recidivism risk due to resource gaps.

Eligibility is strictly limited to individuals living within the M25 (Greater London), with no grants to organisations; applications must come via probation officers or approved social welfare agencies—no unsolicited or self-referrals accepted. Typical grants range from £150–£250 for immediate needs to up to £1,000 for training, awarded on a rolling basis through an online form (preferred since May 2025) with rapid processing upon verification. Exclusions include passports, driving licences, mobiles, laptops, capital projects, or organisational costs, ensuring laser-focus on person-centred resettlement for those with few alternatives.