W H Smith Group Charitable Trust

The W H Smith Group Charitable Trust, also known as the WHSmith Trust, is an independent grantmaking charity established in 1992 by the UK retailer WHSmith to promote literacy, enhance life chances through reading and learning, and support local communities, particularly those linked to its stores. Guided by values of social impact, community cohesion, and employee citizenship, it leverages staff nominations, matched giving, and volunteering to amplify grassroots efforts, with a flagship partnership alongside the National Literacy Trust emphasizing reading for pleasure to boost children's outcomes.

It funds literacy initiatives like books and resources for schools, community projects for children, youth, the elderly, disabled people, and general charitable purposes, plus small-scale community grants from sources like the plastic bag levy. Support targets practical, targeted interventions rather than core costs or large programs, including occasional matched funding for employee-nominated causes.

Eligible applicants include UK-registered charities, constituted community groups, and schools with no strict income limits, prioritizing smaller local organizations in areas with WHSmith retail presence across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Applications are unsolicited via email on a rolling basis (discuss projects first), with Community Grants in two annual rounds closing 31 March and 30 September; typical awards range £500–£1,000, occasionally higher for key literacy projects, decided within a month.

Exclusions cover faith-based, military, or political groups, core funding, and unrestricted support. Distinctive for its staff-driven, place-based approach integrating corporate resources with accessible small grants for reading, education, and wellbeing in WHSmith communities.