Wixamtree Trust

The Wixamtree Trust, an independent grant-making charity established in 1962 by Sir Humphrey Whitbread, focuses on enhancing the wellbeing and development of Bedfordshire communities through practical support for voluntary organisations. Governed by six trustees chaired by a Whitbread family member, it draws on an endowed portfolio for sustainable funding, guided by values of community benefit, local responsiveness, and resourceful stewardship. Its distinctive approach emphasises flexible, impartial grant-making to address evolving needs in Bedfordshire's voluntary sector, with a historic nod to charities linked to the founder.

The Trust funds a broad spectrum of initiatives benefiting Bedfordshire residents, including community services, education, disability support, mental health, arts, youth and older people programmes, medical/social care, and historic building conservation—particularly church repairs via the Beds and Herts Historic Churches Trust. Beneficiaries range from grassroots groups and schools to medium-sized charities like Bedford Daycare Hospice, BOLD, and Bedford Open Door, supporting project delivery, core costs, capital works, equipment, and unrestricted aid.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities and academic institutions operating in or directly benefiting Bedfordshire, with no income thresholds but a preference for local impact; a few national charities with founder ties may qualify. Grants typically range from £1,000 to £10,000 for one-year awards, plus small grants up to £4,000 between meetings. Unsolicited applications via website form and email/post are reviewed quarterly (January, April, July, October), with the next deadline at midnight on 7 January 2026 for February decisions.

Exclusions include individuals, overseas activities, and non-charitable entities; church fabric grants go exclusively through the Historic Churches Trust. Uniquely, it blends family heritage with pragmatic, place-based funding, prioritising continuity for Bedfordshire's social welfare ecosystem over rigid themes.