Our assessment process

OUR ASSESSMENT PROCESS

How we shortlist applications

We receive far more applications than we can support – typically, around five for every grant we award. This high level of demand means we can only consider applications from charities that closely match our funding priorities and eligibility criteria. If your organisation (or funding request) does not fit our current interests, we will let you know as soon as possible so you can seek support elsewhere.

If your application aligns with our funding priorities and preferred charity profile, we will conduct a full assessment. This process includes:

• Understanding your charity’s place in the sector: We look at other similar or complementary services (charitable or statutory) in your local area or nationally and assess how your work complements these.



• Avoiding duplication: We do not support organisations that appear to duplicate the efforts of more established charities with wider reach. If similar services are already provided by larger, national charities, we will only prioritise your charity if it is clearly adding value to existing provision, rather than replicating it locally.

• Beneficiary needs and impact: We seek to understand how you meet the needs of your beneficiaries and how you measure the effectiveness of your services.

• External validation: Where possible, we look for independent reviews or assessments of your work – such as CQC ratings for healthcare providers, independent evaluations, or relevant sector awards – beyond user testimonials.

• Governance and safeguarding: We consider your governance structures, financial stewardship, and approach to safeguarding.

• Due diligence: We carry out internet-based searches as part of our assessment process.

If we need further information about your charity or funding request, we will arrange to speak with you. After this call, we will either invite you to submit a full application or explain why we cannot progress your application further.

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