Southlands Methodist Trust

Southlands Methodist Trust is an educational charity established by the Methodist Church in Britain, with roots in Southlands College (founded 1872 as a teacher-training institution) and formalized in 2005 through a merger of historic assets. Closely affiliated with Southlands College at the University of Roehampton in London, its mission advances Methodist scholarship, research, and innovation of local, national, and global significance, while enriching college chaplaincy, fostering university relationships, and promoting Methodist values of education, inclusivity, social justice, and ecclesial engagement. It emphasizes knowledge exchange, spiritual development, and social impact, convening networks via the Susanna Wesley Foundation for practical theology, leadership, ministry, and transformation.

The Trust funds higher education and faith-based initiatives, including academic research, chaplaincy programs, leadership development, scholarships, bursaries, fellowships, conferences, curriculum innovation, community engagement, and heritage projects like Methodist archiving. Beneficiaries encompass students and staff at Southlands College/University of Roehampton, Methodist learning networks, ecumenical academics, young people, and faith/education sectors, prioritizing projects blending academic rigor with Methodist witness and addressing ethical issues or ministerial formation—often through longstanding programs or pilots with national/international Methodist collaborations.

Eligible applicants include UK-registered charities, community groups, and academic institutions based anywhere in the UK (England/Wales focus, some international fellowships for Methodist/Wesleyan applicants); no income thresholds apply, with no religious restrictions. It accepts unsolicited applications via online forms (e.g., Small Grants or Susanna Wesley forms) requiring project summaries, budgets, and referees. Annual deadlines are typically May (e.g., 2025 expected), with June trustee assessments and July decisions; grants range £1,000–£5,000 for projects, not core costs. Distinctively, it uniquely bridges mainstream higher education and Methodist faith at a London university, supporting innovative, ecumenical work with tangible community impact.