Alison Hillman Charitable Trust

The Alison Hillman Charitable Trust, established by trust deed on 19 July 1994, is a UK-based funder governed by a small board of long-serving trustees, dedicated to advancing epilepsy research, alleviating suffering from the condition, and supporting care, treatment, and relief for people with epilepsy and their families. Its core mission balances scientific progress—funding studies into causes, prevention, and treatment—with compassionate, practical aid, including family services, youth development, bereavement resources, and public awareness initiatives. Rooted in evidence-based philanthropy and a strategic, sustainable approach using investment income from property holdings, the Trust embodies values of medical innovation, quality-of-life improvement, and targeted impact across national and local levels in England and Wales.

It prioritizes grants to epilepsy-focused charities for research, specialist care, emotional support, and service delivery, with past recipients like Young Epilepsy, SUDEP Action, Epilepsy Action, and the OHMI Trust benefiting from funding for youth programs, podcasts, and bereavement prevention. Beneficiaries are primarily UK individuals and families affected by epilepsy, spanning children and adults, through projects, core costs, capital, or unrestricted support.

Eligible applicants are exclusively UK-registered charities, preferably medium-to-large national or specialist epilepsy organizations operating in England and Wales; no strict income thresholds apply, but alignment with epilepsy priorities is essential. Unsolicited applications are not routinely accepted—start with a phone enquiry to 0121 428 1666 or direct trustee contact—followed by discretionary review on a rolling basis with no deadlines or forms.

Typical grants range from £5,000 to £50,000 (averaging £10,000–£35,000), with annual totals around £230,000–£300,000 across 30–40 awards. Exclusions include individuals and non-charitable entities; its singular epilepsy focus, multi-year commitments to niche and established groups, and trustee-led selectivity sharply distinguish it among UK funders.