Big Yellow Foundation

The Big Yellow Foundation, a charitable incorporated organisation established in 2017 by FTSE 250-listed Big Yellow Group Plc, drives employment and independence for vulnerable UK adults from disadvantaged backgrounds, including refugees, ex-offenders, ex-service personnel, and those with learning or physical disabilities. Rooted in practical support, dignity, and brighter futures, it evolved from a 2016–17 pilot and emphasises proactive partnerships, matched customer/staff donations, in-kind resources like free/discounted storage (£284,000+ annually to 200+ charities), volunteering, and work placements at Big Yellow sites. Its ethos integrates corporate assets with targeted philanthropy for measurable social inclusion and resilience.

It funds proven charity partners delivering employment outcomes, prioritising initiatives like Breaking Barriers (refugee integration), Bounce Back (ex-offender training/placements), disability inclusion, mental health support, and crisis responses such as Ukraine Sponsorship Pathway UK. Core grants cover organisational costs, with occasional project/capacity funding, focusing on sustainable reintegration for marginalised adults via hands-on, evidence-based programmes.

Eligible applicants are exclusively UK-registered charities with strong track records in vulnerable adult employability; medium-to-large organisations operating UK-wide (with London/England emphasis) are preferred, but no formal income limits apply. Unsolicited applications are not accepted—funding is invite-only, selected by trustees for thematic fit. Typical grants are £40,000 annually per partner (£10,000 quarterly), supporting ~7 partners (£210,000 total in 2023–24), reviewed at quarterly meetings (July, October, January, April). It excludes open calls, non-employment-focused work, or unproven entities, distinguishing itself through corporate synergy, low costs, and deep partner engagement for enduring impact.