Lankelly Chase

Lankelly Chase is an independent UK charitable foundation established in 2004 through the merger of the Lankelly Foundation and Chase Charity, both originating in the 1960s. Its core mission is to dismantle unjust systems perpetuating severe and multiple disadvantage—cycles of homelessness, mental ill health, violence, substance misuse, and inequalities from racism and gender. Guided by values of justice, equity, inclusion, shared humanity, humility, and reflection, it pioneered a shift from traditional grant-making to participatory systems change, power devolution to lived-experience networks, grassroots activism, and community-led decision-making. Now in a managed closure phase toward permanent redistribution of all assets by 2028, it models radical philanthropy by relinquishing control to frontline actors.

Historically, it funded initiatives tackling intertwined social harms, social justice, racism, mental health, domestic abuse, women in criminal justice, short-term prisoners, and poverty. Support went to lived-experience networks, local inquiries, collective action, cultural shifts, and place-based partnerships in England (e.g., York, Greater Manchester, Gateshead, Barrow, Barking, Stoke-on-Trent) and Scotland via groups like Corra Foundation. Beneficiaries were marginalised communities with complex needs, emphasising grassroots groups, small charities, and changemaker networks over conventional organisations.

Eligible entities were UK-registered charities and community groups based in the UK, with no strict income limits but preference for those closest to disadvantage; no religious restrictions. Typical grants ranged £50,000–£250,000, occasionally up to £2m for strategic work, covering core funding, projects, capacity building, and devolved participatory grants.

Lankelly Chase does not accept unsolicited applications or enquiries—no open deadlines or processes exist as grant-making has ceased. It uniquely rejects top-down philanthropy, sector silos, and short-term outputs, prioritising long-term systemic equity and community leadership as its enduring legacy.