Sir Robert Geffery's Almshouse Trust

Sir Robert Geffery's Almshouse Trust, established by the 1704 bequest of Sir Robert Geffery, former Lord Mayor of London, provides high-quality sheltered accommodation and support for older people facing economic hardship, while also funding educational and heritage initiatives. Governed by the Ironmongers' Trust Company under The Worshipful Company of Ironmongers (founded 1463), it upholds values of respect, dignity, benevolence, and long-term welfare, delivering two housing schemes in Hampshire—primarily Geffery's Fields in Basingstoke for 65 retired individuals of modest means—and grants advancing iron/metal-related education and heritage.

The Trust funds project-specific grants for disadvantaged children and young people up to age 25, prioritizing ironmongery heritage, metalwork education, and activities enhancing opportunities for youth; it also supports housing-related capital improvements, resident services, and refurbishments. Beneficiaries include elderly people needing supported living in Hampshire and UK-based schools, educational bodies, or heritage groups serving disadvantaged youth, with outcomes focused on well-being, stability, educational access, and heritage engagement.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities or academic institutions, primarily medium/small-sized with thematic alignment, though the Trust does not accept unsolicited applications—grants are discretionary and allocated to preselected organizations identified by trustees. Typical awards range from £1,000 to £50,000 (often £5,000–£20,000), with no public deadlines, rounds, or processes; housing applications go directly to the scheme Warden. It excludes unrelated projects, unrestricted funding, or non-UK entities, distinguishing itself through its rare dual focus on specialist almshouse management and ironmongery-linked education, ensuring sustained, mission-aligned impact.