Bridge House Trust - Non-Ecclesiastical

Bridge House Trust - Non-Ecclesiastical, also known as Barker Bridge House Trust - Non-Ecclesiastical Branch, is a historic local charity registered in 1966 with roots in longstanding bequests of land and property for the ancient parish of Datchet. Administered by volunteer trustees and funded through local assets like a public house and agricultural land, its core mission is to apply income for charitable purposes that directly benefit Datchet residents, enhancing community wellbeing, fostering participation, and sustaining clubs, facilities, and amenities. Its values emphasize locally responsive grant-making, simplicity, and tangible improvements to quality of life, operating as a generalist funder without a formal strategic framework but with a steadfast commitment to grassroots community cohesion.

The trust supports a broad range of Datchet-based initiatives, including village clubs, recreational facilities, community projects, buildings, open spaces, and general charitable activities that demonstrably serve local inhabitants. Past grants have backed organizations strengthening participation and addressing community needs, with flexibility across themes as long as they align with local benefit.

Eligible applicants are strictly Datchet-based organizations, clubs, and groups—typically small, volunteer-led grassroots entities—with no specified income thresholds but a clear preference for local scale over large or national charities. Unsolicited applications are welcomed via email or post to the Trust Clerk, requiring a brief statement on organizational base, activities, project details, funding amount requested, and other sources pursued. Grants typically range from £500 to £5,000, awarded on a rolling basis with no fixed deadlines or application forms; decisions are made by trustees as needed.

Exclusions include relief of rates, taxes, or public funds, and any non-Datchet activities. Its hyper-local focus, accessible process, and active stewardship distinguish it as an ideal, place-based supporter for Datchet's community fabric.