Grant Programmes

Applications not Considered

As a general rule we expect that applicants will have considered the Foundation’s Guidance either on our web site, or in guides to trusts and foundations published by organisations such as the Directory of Social Change or in other relevant references.

Our preferred format for initial approaches for funding is laid down in the section HOW TO APPLY . Applications that make no effort to meet this simple requirement will be rejected automatically.

The following applications will not be considered by the Foundation:

From organisations that are not registered or recognised as charities unless in the process of registering.
For any work that is not legally charitable, including that of political parties, political lobbying or campaigning.
To support any work that is a public funding or statutory responsibility whether fulfilled or not.
Sponsorship of individuals for any purpose.
From large, well-established or national charities.
From other grant-making bodies except in circumstances of partnerships, joint or matched funding.
Heritage or archival projects.
Any capital project involving the purchase, renovation or extension of buildings including the repair of churches and church appeals.
For capital purchases such as IT equipment or furniture unless forming a part of a greater package of work or project.
Conferences.
Appeals of any kind including disaster relief appeals.
For work that promotes a particular religious belief.
For specific physical, mental or medical conditions or disabilities.
For sporting, social or other fund-raising events.
From animal welfare organisations.
Projects where the activity takes place overseas including foreign travel and expeditions.
Projects outside the Greater London area defined by the M25 motorway. Applications from charities in those parts of Surrey and Kent outside of the M25 will only be considered if they are initiated by a member of the Wates family or endorsed by them before application is made to the Foundation.