Margaret Fisher Charitable Trust
About This Funder
The Margaret Fisher Charitable Trust, established by trust deed on 17 May 1982 by settlor Margaret Fisher—who added further assets via her 2004 will—exists to promote the welfare, comfort, and opportunities of elderly and disabled people. With a founder-driven ethos centered on direct local benefit, it has maintained an unwavering focus on the Shaftesbury area in Dorset for over four decades, prioritizing institutions like Margaret Fisher House while allowing trustees discretion for aligned UK charities. Its distinctive approach emphasizes trustee-led identification of needs, institutional support over individual aid, and a tightly controlled policy ensuring public benefit and measurable local impact.
The trust funds projects enhancing residential care facilities, equipment for disabled residents, maintenance of care homes, core running costs, capital improvements, and essential services for elderly and disabled communities, particularly in Shaftesbury and immediate surroundings. It backs small to medium-sized charities delivering direct services to these beneficiaries, reflecting a consistent strategy of sustaining local care infrastructure rather than broad or thematic initiatives.
Eligible applicants are exclusively UK-registered charities operating in or near Shaftesbury, Dorset, with a preference for smaller organizations providing localized impact; national or large-scale entities are rarely supported. Unsolicited applications are not accepted—grants are awarded at trustees' discretion following proactive selection, with decisions made at regular ad hoc meetings several times per year and no published deadlines.
Typical grants range from £1,000 to £10,000 annually per charity, mostly in the lower range, with occasional larger one-offs for capital needs. It excludes direct individual support, non-UK entities, and activities outside its narrow geographic and beneficiary focus, setting it apart through its hyper-local, invitation-only model and enduring commitment to Shaftesbury's vulnerable elderly and disabled populations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Margaret Fisher Charitable Trust
How much funding does Margaret Fisher Charitable Trust provide?
Margaret Fisher Charitable Trust typically provides grants ranging from £1,000 - £10,000.
Is Margaret Fisher Charitable Trust accepting applications?
Margaret Fisher Charitable Trust is currently not accepting applications. Check their website for updates.
Where does Margaret Fisher Charitable Trust fund charities?
Margaret Fisher Charitable Trust funds charities operating in UK.
How do I apply for funding from Margaret Fisher Charitable Trust?
Use Fundermatcher to check if your charity is a good match for Margaret Fisher Charitable Trust, then access detailed application guidance, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Our AI assistant can help you draft a compelling application.