William Leech Charity

The William Leech Charity, established in 1972 by North East housebuilder and philanthropist Sir William Leech, is an independent grant- and loan-making trust dedicated to unlocking potential and creating opportunities for disadvantaged communities. Rooted in values of compassion, integrity, inclusivity, collaboration, and sustainability, it supports UK-registered charities addressing local needs in the North East of England and select international projects, emphasizing transformative interventions in education and skills development, health and wellbeing (physical and mental), poverty alleviation to break cycles of hardship, and community strengthening through infrastructure and resources. The Lady Leech Designated Fund uniquely extends support to charities aiding children in underdeveloped countries, provided there is a North East connection. Beneficiaries include vulnerable children and youth, homeless and low-income families, and those facing barriers to opportunity.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities, with a strong preference for small- to medium-sized organizations delivering impact in Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, County Durham, Teesside, and surrounding North East areas; larger charities may qualify if regionally focused, and no strict income thresholds apply. International projects under the Lady Leech Fund require a clear local link.

Grants typically range from £2,000 to £20,000 (averaging £5,000–£15,000, occasionally up to £50,000), funding projects, capacity building, core costs tied to delivery, capital items, and interest-free loans for North East groups. Unsolicited applications are welcomed via online portal registration on a rolling basis, reviewed at quarterly trustee meetings (March, June, September, December)—submit at least four weeks prior for 2–4 month decisions. Exclusions cover non-charitable activities; distinctive features include its blend of local legacy-building, resilience-focused loans, and global reach with regional ties, awarding over 80 grants annually to 240+ projects.