Ellerdale Trust

The Ellerdale Trust, established in 1998 and registered as a UK charity in 1999, is an independent endowment-funded grant-maker dedicated to relieving poverty, distress, and suffering among disadvantaged children and young people, primarily those in early years up to age 10 (with an upper limit of 18). Guided by Charity Commission standards, its trustees annually review policies to maximize public benefit and social impact through rigorous governance, experienced leadership, and a focus on evidence-based interventions. Now administered exclusively via the London Community Foundation, the Trust emphasizes front-line relief, capacity building, and enduring change for vulnerable children facing poverty, health challenges, or developmental hardship, supporting proven UK charities like those advancing youth mental health and child protection.

It prioritizes project funding and practical relief for disadvantaged young people in the UK, backing organizations delivering tangible outcomes in child welfare, with a historical emphasis on small to medium-sized local charities exhibiting strong governance and track records.

Eligible applicants are exclusively UK-registered charities operating in London, as all grants are channeled through the London Community Foundation's processes; there is no preference for specific income levels, but a focus on established entities prevails. Unsolicited applications are not accepted—charities must apply via the Foundation's published calls, with no direct Trust contact. Typical past grants ranged from £5,000 to £20,000 annually, though current amounts follow Foundation guidelines; decisions occur at annual trustee meetings, with deadlines set by the Foundation.

Distinctively, the Trust excludes grants to individuals, overseas aid, and unproven organizations, prohibiting trustee remuneration or fundraising activities to maintain pure grant-making independence and laser-focused impact on London's early-years child adversity.