John Scott Charitable Trust

The John Scott Charitable Trust, established in 2008 as a UK-registered charity under a Declaration of Trust, focuses on advancing education and relieving poverty through grants supporting youth work and veteran welfare. Overseen by a small board of trustees chaired by Andrew Wemyss, who holds appointment powers, the trust embodies a conservative, prudent approach by distributing annual income from investments without building reserves, ensuring consistent, targeted giving aligned with its founding vision of empowering young people and aiding former service personnel.

It funds projects and some core costs for organizations delivering education, skills training, youth development, and welfare support for veterans, with beneficiaries primarily children, young people, and ex-forces communities. Grants emphasize tangible outcomes in poverty relief and opportunity creation, as seen in recipients focused on these themes.

Eligible applicants are solely UK-registered charities or properly constituted organizations, preferably small to medium-sized with no strict income limits, operating mainly in London and Scotland though other areas may be considered. Unsolicited applications are not accepted; there is no public process, website guidance, or deadlines—grants are awarded discretionarily at least one annual trustee meeting to pre-selected entities.

Typical grants range from £5,000 to £20,000. The trust excludes individuals, start-ups, informal groups, and activities outside its narrow priorities, distinguishing itself through deep commitment to youth and veterans, strategic financial stewardship, and exclusive support for proven charities in a selective UK funding landscape.