The Grocers' Charity
The Grocers’ Charity is a significant grant-making organization in the UK, distributing approximately £1 million annually to registered charities across a wide range of sectors. Each year, the Charity awards one-off grants of up to £5,000 through its open grants program, which typically receives over 1,000 applications, funding around 14% of them. Applications must be submitted via the online form, with no unsolicited information accepted by post or email. However, applicants with impairments who cannot apply online are encouraged to contact the Charity before submitting any information by post.
The Grocers’ Charity prioritizes several key areas in its grant-making process. For **Children and Young People (0-25)**, the Charity supports initiatives that empower young people to overcome challenges, develop strengths, and achieve their goals, including well-being programs that offer counseling and peer support. In the area of **Elderly care**, the Charity funds services that combat social exclusion and loneliness, as well as those that enhance daily activities and improve home life for older adults. **Disability and Inclusion** is another critical focus, with grants supporting programs that break down barriers to inclusion and provide direct support to disabled individuals.
Health is a major area of focus for the Grocers’ Charity. It funds ethical medical research, supports tangible projects for people with medical conditions, and promotes well-being and mental health. For organizations serving the military community, the Charity supports programs that assist veterans in transitioning to civilian life, as well as initiatives that address the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of both current and former service members and their families.
The Charity also values the **Arts**, funding programs that promote creativity and social understanding, especially for marginalized groups, and **Heritage**, where it supports the conservation of historic buildings and objects. Finally, the Charity is committed to **Environment and Conservation**, funding projects that protect natural habitats, promote sustainability, and address critical issues such as pollution and climate change.
To be eligible for these grants, charities must be registered in the UK and have a turnover of less than £500,000, except for medical charities, where the limit is £15 million. The Grocers’ Charity does not accept applications from non-UK registered charities, places of worship, educational establishments, or for projects that benefit individuals or communities outside the UK. The deadlines for initial grant enquiries are September 6th and January 10th.