VTCT Foundation
About This Funder
The VTCT Foundation, established in 2014 from an endowment by VTCT—a specialist in vocational qualifications—focuses exclusively on improving quality of life for people with visible differences, such as scars, marks, or conditions altering appearance, whether congenital or acquired. Rooted in addressing neglected social, psychological, physical, and emotional challenges for individuals and families, it emphasises collaboration, inclusivity, evidence-based interventions, and long-term sectoral impact. Distinctively, it convenes The Appearance Collective, a network uniting charities, researchers, and clinicians to share best practices, reduce duplication, and amplify collective influence, bridging vocational education origins with stigma reduction in appearance-related fields.
It funds research, services, and interventions directly benefiting those with visible differences, prioritising children, young people, adults, families, carers, and underserved groups, alongside supporting professionals. Activities include basic/clinical research, psychosocial support, peer models, pilot programmes, capacity-building, vocational opportunities, and its flagship Career Development Programme offering PhD studentships and research fellowships for impactful knowledge in appearance psychology, reconstructive surgery, and social inclusion. Currently, only this programme is open; general grants (e.g., small grants up to £25,000, larger projects) are paused.
Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities and academic institutions delivering projects within the UK, with no income thresholds but preference for sector experts demonstrating innovation, collaboration, and scalability. Applications via email to lizzie.chambers@vtctfoundation.org.uk using the official form, considered rolling while open—no preliminary enquiries needed. Awards follow host institution stipends; excludes indirect university costs, student/clinical fees, and non-research expenses. Success hinges on measurable psychosocial outcomes, real-world legacy, and leveraged impact.
Frequently Asked Questions about VTCT Foundation
How much funding does VTCT Foundation provide?
Grant amounts vary. Contact VTCT Foundation directly for current funding levels.
Is VTCT Foundation accepting applications?
Yes, VTCT Foundation is currently open to applications from eligible charities.
Where does VTCT Foundation fund charities?
VTCT Foundation funds charities operating in UK.
How do I apply for funding from VTCT Foundation?
Use Fundermatcher to check if your charity is a good match for VTCT Foundation, then access detailed application guidance, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Our AI assistant can help you draft a compelling application.