Postcode Local Trust

Postcode Local Trust, established in 2014 as a registered charity and company limited by guarantee, channels proceeds from the People’s Postcode Lottery to empower small grassroots organisations in the West of England. Overseen by an independent board, its mission is to foster community-led change for people and planet, advancing environmental conservation, wellbeing, and local resilience through grants that deliver tangible, sustainable benefits. Rooted in values of local empowerment, inclusivity, fairness, and trust in community expertise, it prioritises hyper-local projects strengthening cohesion, enhancing environments, and supporting vulnerable groups.

The Trust funds four core themes: environmental improvement and nature conservation (e.g., community gardens, urban greening, wildlife projects); public spaces and amenities (e.g., park upgrades, heritage restoration); healthy living and wellbeing (e.g., outdoor activities, healthy eating); and opportunities for marginalised communities (e.g., inclusive schemes for isolated or disadvantaged people). Grants cover project costs and essential core expenses for time-limited initiatives with measurable legacy, favouring those with strong volunteer involvement and public access.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities, CICs, or community groups operating at least one year in the West of England (verified by postcode), with income preferably under £250,000 (max £1 million), at least three trustees/two directors, and recent accounts. Typical grants range £10,000–£20,000 (up to £25,000, not exceeding one-third of annual income). Unsolicited applications via online form during annual rounds (three 7–12-day windows); quarterly meetings decide awards, with 2025 rounds closed and next anticipated in 2026—check website for eligibility tool and deadlines.

It excludes statutory bodies, large national charities, unrelated activities, unrestricted/core-only funding, and non-local projects, distinguishing itself by spotlighting overlooked grassroots causes with lottery-backed, postcode-targeted support for enduring local impact.