Zochonis Charitable Trust

The Zochonis Charitable Trust, established in 1977 by Sir John Zochonis with roots in the PZ Cussons family legacy, is an endowment-based grantmaker distributing around £3.5 million annually to nearly 200 UK charities. Its core mission focuses on impartial, merit-based support for public-benefit causes, primarily in North West England, emphasizing education, children's and youth welfare, while upholding values of prudence, discretion, and non-intervention—no direct applicant engagement, feedback, or public website exists. Trustees review grants annually to align with contemporary needs, balancing enduring institutional support with strategic responsiveness.

The Trust funds a broad spectrum of activities, including project work, core costs, capital projects, and emergency relief in areas like health, homelessness, community support, overseas development (especially West Africa, e.g., Ebola response), family services, ex-service personnel, elderly care, rescue services, culture/heritage, rural communities, and social equity. Beneficiaries span children, young people, vulnerable/disadvantaged groups locally and internationally, with examples including Saint Mary’s Hospital Charity, AfriKids, and Prison Advice and Care Trust for health, disability inclusion, youth development, and social justice.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities of any size (no income thresholds), prioritizing those in Cheshire East, Cheshire West & Chester, Lancashire, Manchester City, and Trafford, though broader UK and select overseas work is considered. Applications are unsolicited via written letter on letterhead (with trustees list, latest annual report/accounts) sent by post to the Secretary; rolling basis with quarterly trustee meetings (March, June, September, December) and 10-16 week decisions—only successes notified. Typical grants range £5,000–£25,000 (median ~£15,000), occasionally up to £100,000; no formal exclusions beyond charitable status, distinguished by its low-profile, regionally anchored yet globally flexible approach favoring sustainable, evidence-based impact.