Jill and Norman Franklin Trust

The Jill and Norman Franklin Trust, founded by academic publisher Norman Franklin in memory of his wife Jill, an architectural historian, is an independent UK grant-maker dedicated to tackling unpopular, overlooked social issues and barriers to mainstream funding. Rooted in values of social justice, independence, and catalytic support, it champions marginalized groups facing acute exclusion—prioritizing practical aid, empowerment, and systemic change through frontline organizations, while also preserving cultural heritage via targeted church restorations.

It funds initiatives for refugees and asylum seekers (especially those with No Recourse to Public Funds), prisoners' education and training, women at risk of domestic abuse, mental health and learning difficulties support, crime desistance, and bereavement counselling. Church grants are strictly for restoration of Grade 1 (or exceptionally Grade 2*) listed buildings' fabric. Beneficiaries are disadvantaged people in poverty-stricken areas, with strong emphasis on North East England and South West Scotland for social projects (UK-wide for churches), favoring small, grassroots charities and community groups over national ones, typically those with incomes under £500,000.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities or community groups; unsolicited applications are welcomed via email or post, with no preliminary enquiry needed. Grants range from £1,000–£10,000 (often £3,000–£5,000 for social work), considered at trustee meetings three times yearly (February, June, October)—submit church applications six weeks prior. Decisions take 3–4 months. Exclusions include large organizations, church running costs/equipment, and non-qualifying heritage sites; its distinctive edge lies in pioneering stigmatized causes, family governance, and strategic backing for catalytic, dignity-focused projects where others hesitate. Check https://jnfranklintrust.org.uk for latest guidance.