Victoria Convalescent Trust

Victoria Convalescent Trust, formed in 1997 through the amalgamation of historic convalescent funds like the King Edward VII Children’s Convalescent Trust and Victoria Convalescent Trust Fund, is a UK-registered charity dedicated to providing financial support for short breaks, convalescence, recuperative care, and respite for vulnerable people in England and Wales who face financial hardship and cannot access statutory services. Its mission emphasizes compassion, public benefit, and dignity, targeting those with severe enduring disabilities, physical or mental illnesses, or caregiving burdens, believing that restorative UK-based breaks (up to seven nights) and essential equipment alleviate suffering, prevent burnout, and enhance resilience as a safety net for overlooked needs.

The Trust funds project grants for short breaks at specialist providers like Holiday Homes Trust or Rustington Convalescent Home, family self-catering holidays, or residential camps, alongside smaller grants for vital items such as mobility aids, white goods, and household essentials that promote independence. Beneficiaries span all ages, with a focus on high-need individuals referred by professionals.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities, statutory bodies, or frontline services (e.g., health/social care workers, Citizens Advice, prison services) actively involved with clients in the past year; individuals cannot self-apply, and only one application per person/family is allowed every 12 months. There are no income thresholds or geographic sub-restrictions within England and Wales, prioritizing greatest need. Typical grants range £100-£650 (averaging ~£417), with £154,705 awarded to 371 people in 2024. Applications via online portal are accepted year-round, decided quarterly, next deadline 20 June 2025.

Exclusions include core costs, capacity building, overseas holidays, or commercial provider-managed breaks; its distinctive professional referral gatekeeping, tight focus on short-term recovery, and historical legacy ensure targeted aid for the most excluded.