Sir James Roll Charitable Trust

The Sir James Roll Charitable Trust is an independent grant-making charity based in Rochester, Kent, focused on fostering mutual tolerance and cordiality among major world religions, advancing access to computer technology as a teaching tool in primary schools and community projects (excluding political parties and local government), supporting early identification of specific learning disorders, and pursuing other charitable aims at trustees' absolute discretion. Established to drive societal improvement through education, digital inclusion, and interfaith harmony, it embodies values of inclusivity and opportunity for vulnerable groups, funding both religious and secular initiatives that unlock potential via technology and early interventions.

It prioritizes small-scale projects benefiting underserved communities, such as IT equipment provision, facility upgrades, and direct services for people with learning disabilities, neurological disorders like Rett syndrome or autism, criminal convictions, or domestic abuse survivors. Past grantees include the Mortimer Society, Unlock, Women's Aid Federation of England, Rett UK, Independence At Home, and Transforming Autism Project, highlighting a pattern of support for grassroots efforts addressing educational exclusion and disability.

Eligible applicants are strictly UK-registered charities, with a preference for small to medium-sized organizations serving vulnerable UK populations; international projects may be considered discretionally. The Trust does not accept unsolicited applications, operating on a proactive, trustee-led basis with no open deadlines or public process. Grants are modest, typically £1,500 or less (often under £5,000), funding specific project costs rather than core operations.

Distinctive for its flexible, principles-driven remit without religious restrictions or thematic exclusivity, it stands out by empowering smaller charities tackling learning needs and inclusion through practical tech and education-focused aid, while avoiding statutory bodies or partisan activities.