Queenborough Fishery Trust

Queenborough Fishery Trust is a historic grant-making charity established via an 1859 declaration of trust following an 1845 Act of Parliament to alleviate local economic distress in Queenborough, Kent. Its core mission focuses on preventing or relieving poverty and sickness, providing recreational and leisure facilities, and advancing education for Swale area residents, with a strong emphasis on Queenborough's disadvantaged communities. Rooted in local history, the Trust's values prioritise sustainable impact, inclusivity, and community welfare through an endowment-funded model from owned properties, governed by local council-nominated and independent trustees who balance reserves and risks for enduring support.

The Trust funds poverty relief, health and disability aid, recreational enhancements, and educational initiatives, including direct grants to individuals in hardship and support for community projects like schools, youth clubs, elderly groups, disability equipment, and local facilities. It also exercises discretion for other charitable purposes addressing emerging needs, benefiting children, youth, elderly, disabled people, and voluntary groups promoting welfare, education, and wellbeing in Swale.

Eligible applicants include UK-registered charities, community groups, academic institutions, and individuals benefiting Swale residents—no income thresholds or organisational base restrictions apply, though local impact is prioritised. Applications are unsolicited via online form on a rolling basis, reviewed at regular trustee meetings with no fixed deadlines; typical grants range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds for projects, core costs, or capital.

Distinctive for its tight Swale focus, historical Queenborough ties, and blend of relief, health, leisure, and education aims, the Trust avoids non-local or non-charitable activities, favouring grassroots efforts with demonstrable community benefit and local stakeholder involvement.