The Bernard Sunley Foundation provides capital grants to UK charities to help improve quality of life for people facing disadvantage, vulnerability or exclusion. The Social Welfare strand supports physical infrastructure and assets that enable organisations to deliver long-lasting positive impact for veterans, older adults, people with disabilities, ex-offenders and others who may be marginalised.
The Foundation does not fund running costs, salaries or core operational expenses. Instead, it focuses on one-off capital expenditure that strengthens community capacity and enables beneficiaries to engage in inclusive, supportive environments.
What the Social Welfare Grants Support
Under the Social Welfare category, the Foundation considers capital projects that:
- Provide or improve buildings and spaces that support vulnerable people’s wellbeing
- Refurbish or extend facilities used by those who are elderly, disabled or socially excluded
- Create or upgrade residential or day-centre premises for rehabilitation, respite or community support
- Purchase essential new transport, such as minibuses, that improve mobility and access for vulnerable groups
- Equip facilities that support ex-offenders, veterans, people with mental and physical disabilities, and those working to reintegrate into community life
Projects should be tangible, durable and designed to have a long life; from buildings and extensions to equipment and vehicles that enable organisations to deliver services more effectively.
Grants are awarded across ten social welfare funding areas:
- Addiction and Rehabilitation
- Almshouses
- Animal Welfare
- Armed Forces and Veterans
- Domestic and Sexual Abuse
- Elderly
- Ex-Offenders
- Homeless
- Poverty Relief Overseas
- Social Enterprises
Who Can Apply
Social Welfare grants are open to a wide range of eligible organisations that are:
- Registered charities or Charitable Incorporated Organisations (CIOs) operating in England and Wales
- Other constituted bodies such as specialist schools, scout or guide groups, housing associations, cooperatives and community benefit societies with eligible charity status
- Organisations with an annual income under £10 million, with a preference for smaller charities where the funding will make a visible difference
While the Foundation prefers to support smaller organisations with significant capital needs, it may consider larger projects in exceptional cases. Projects with a total cost under £10,000 are generally not eligible, so applicants should plan for capital proposals above this threshold.
How Much Funding Is Available
The Bernard Sunley Foundation awards three levels of grants:
- Small Grants: up to £5,000 — typically for smaller capital items or contributions to larger projects
- Medium Grants: up to £20,000 — used for more substantial capital needs
- Large Grants: £25,000 and above for major capital projects or significant infrastructure work
The Foundation distributes millions annually across all funding categories, and around 80 % of awards are small grants — but larger capital grants are available for projects with robust plans and clear community benefit.
Eligibility and How to Apply
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with no fixed deadlines. Organisations begin by completing an eligibility checker on the Foundation’s website to confirm fit. Once eligible, applicants can complete the online application form with project details, cost estimates and supporting documentation.
Because the Foundation focuses on capital outcomes rather than running costs, applications should clearly explain the long-term value of the asset being funded — from new or refurbished premises to transport or major equipment.
What Makes a Strong Application
To maximise chances of success, applicants should ensure:
- The project has clear, detailed cost plans and quotes
- The capital expenditure will materially improve service delivery, access, or dignity for vulnerable people
- The organisation has appropriate governance and a long-term plan for maintaining the asset
- Transport applications are for new vehicles and buildings or refurbishments include planning or lease information as relevant
Is This Right for Your Organisation
If your charity needs capital investment to improve facilities, purchase essential equipment or expand your ability to support vulnerable groups — particularly older adults, disabled people, veterans or those affected by exclusion — the Social Welfare grants from the Bernard Sunley Foundation are worth exploring. The Foundation’s long tradition of capital funding and rolling application process make this an accessible option for charities across England and Wales looking to make a lasting physical impact in their communities.
