Vernon N Ely Charitable Trust

The Trust supports health and care initiatives within the London Borough of Merton, including hospices, cancer support, cardiac risk prevention and other interventions that promote physical activity and community wellbeing. It also funds tennis-related charities, focusing on participation, facility improvements, grassroots development and youth engagement in the sport. Beyond direct project costs, grants cover capital works such as building upgrades, equipment purchases and solar installations, as well as capacity-building and strategic developments that deliver long-term sustainability. The Trust prioritises projects with demonstrable local impact in Merton or a strong tennis track record, and favours work that enhances community health infrastructure or expands tennis access and quality.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities, with a preference for small- to medium-sized organisations that are either rooted in the London Borough of Merton or have a strong track record in tennis. Large national charities are rarely funded. The Trust looks for demonstrable local impact in Merton for health and community projects, or proven expertise in advancing tennis participation and facilities. There are no formal income thresholds.

The Trust does not support core costs, unrestricted funding, emergency relief, or seed-funding. Activities outside the London Borough of Merton for health and community work, or outside tennis for sports funding, are also not considered. Large national charities without local roots or tennis focus are rarely funded.

The Trust funds specific capital projects and capacity-building initiatives rather than ongoing operational costs. It works by invitation only and does not accept unsolicited applications. Grants are typically one-off, supporting tangible outcomes such as building renovations, equipment, and strategic developments for long-term sustainability.