Funding for charities working in mental health

The Wolfson Foundation is an independent, grant-making charity, based in central London but funding across the UK. We have a wide range of funding programmes and activities. Our fundamental aim is to improve the civic health of society, mainly through education and research.

Our main grants programme provides support for places. These grants are for capital initiatives, i.e. buildings (new build or refurbishment) and equipment. We fund a broad range of organisations working across the fields of education, science & medicine, health & disability, heritage, humanities & the arts.

Funding for charities working in mental health: We support organisations focused on mental illness. Grants are awarded towards capital projects with a particular emphasis on projects which focus on training, employment and supported housing.

Need to know Who can apply: Registered or exempt charity (or equivalent). Location of applicant and project: UK only. Funding covers: New build, refurbishment and equipment. Minimum grant amount: £15,000. Usual grant range: £20,000 – £75,000. Match funding required: Yes, if project cost is >£50,000. Decision dates: June and December annually. Projects must not be completed before a funding decision is made. Wolfson funding programme: Health & Disability.

The organisation should meet all of the following criteria:

• be a registered charity or equivalent
• be registered with the relevant regulatory authority, where applicable, and have at least a good rating

The project should be for a new building, refurbishment work or equipment and aim to produce one or more of the following outcomes:

• Increased access to services for new and existing users.
• Improved quality and range of services.
• Improved financial stability of the organisation.

Examples of ineligible projects and costs include:

• Purchase of land or existing buildings (including a building's freehold)
• Grants direct to individuals
• Grants through conduit organisations
• Overheads, maintenance costs and VAT
• Non-specific appeals (including circulars) and endowment funds
• Costs of meetings, exhibitions, concerts, expeditions, conferences, lectures, etc.
• Salary costs
• Running costs, including vehicle fuel and maintenance
• Film, websites or promotional materials
• Repayment of loans
• Projects that have already been completed or will be by the time of award
• Support and therapy centres (e.g. cancer support centres, MS therapy centres)
• Facilities or equipment in hospitals, particularly where it relates to clinical care
• Carers’ organisations
• Respite accommodation and services
• Ex-armed forces charities, unless they are specifically serving people with physical disabilities or mental health problems
• Charities where support for people with mental health problems or disabilities is only a minor part of the services provided
• Projects which focus on sports or arts
• Sensory play
• Equipment funds
• Mobility scooters
• Air ambulances or helipads