Aims/priorities: The Trust operates a three-year rotation system, with different fields of interests being funded each year:
- In 2024, the first two rounds focused on Disability specifically employment and training to ensure better access. The third (July) and fourth (September) rounds were focused on Food Poverty given the increasing levels across the UK.
- In 2025, the first two rounds will focus on Access to the Arts. The third and fourth rounds will focus on Refugees and Asylum Seekers.
- In 2026, the first two rounds will focus on People experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The third and fourth rounds will focus on unpaid carers.
Who can apply? Organisations registered with the Charity Commission (England, Wales and Northern Ireland) or OSCR, or exempt from registration, can apply.
Grant amount: The Trust awards grants of either £1,000 or £5,000 depending on the grant round:
- Round 1 - £1,000
- Round 2 - £5,000
- Round 3 - £1,000
- Round 4 - £5,000
The level of grant awarded is determined by the income of the charity:
- Grants of £1,000 are available for charities with an operating income of between £100,000 and £1 million.
- Grants of £5,000 are available for charities with a minimum operating income of £1 million. There is no maximum level.
Charities may only apply for one grant per calendar year.
Application process: Applicants should first read the guidelines and FAQs before starting the application process.
The online application form can be found on the Trust's website.
The Trust publishes a list of successful applicants after the trustee meetings. Those who have received funding will find their name on the Trust's website in the 'Successful Applicants' section.
Contact the Austin and Hope Pilkington Trust by email for further information. The Trust does not accept telephone calls.
Deadline: The deadline for Round 4 is Tuesday 30 September 2025.
The application periods for 2025 are:
- Round 1: 1 February - 28 February.
- Round 2: 1 April - 30 April.
- Round 3: 1 July - 31 July.
- Round 4: 1 September - 30 September.
Contact information: Email: admin@austin-hope-pilkington.org.uk