Barchester's Charitable Foundation

Background

Barchester's Charitable Foundation is a small charity that makes a difference in local communities to the lives of older people and other adults with a disability or mental health conditions. It is the corporate charity of Barchester Healthcare.

Objectives of Fund

The funding focus is about connecting or re-connecting people with others in their local community. The Foundation supports applications that combat isolation and loneliness and enable older people and adults with disabilities to be active and engaged.

Value Notes

• Group applications: Grants range from £100 up to £2,600.
• Individual applications: Grants range from £100 up to £1,500.

A three-year exclusion policy applies following a successful grant award (repeat funding cannot be applied for within three years). The Foundation reserves the right to cap grants to a single charity (including all branches) in any one year.

Who Can Apply

Group applications are open to small community groups and small local charities. The Foundation will examine accounts and, as a guideline, is very unlikely to help groups with financial reserves over £200,000.

Individual applications must be completed by a professional who is supporting the individual (such as a GP, occupational therapist, nurse, social worker, or charity/support group representative). Applications submitted by the named individual, family members, or friends are automatically declined.

Location

England, Scotland, Wales, and Jersey.

Restrictions

For groups, grants will not be made for:

• Core/running costs, including salaries and venue hire.
• Indirect services such as helplines, websites, newsletters, leaflets, or research.
• Building/renovation projects or large capital projects.
• Training of staff or volunteers.
• Foodbank provision (unless part of a food preparation or activity project).
• Activities for residents in care homes operated by Barchester Healthcare or any other care home company.
• Retrospective funding.
• Repeat funding within three years of a successful award.

For individuals, grants will not be made for:

• Disability and exercise equipment for use in the home, including specialist chairs and beds.
• Mobility equipment for indoor use only.
• Repairs, maintenance, and refurbishment of mobility equipment.
• Activities, holidays, and special days out.
• Educational courses.
• Home improvements, adaptations, and property repairs (including gardens and ramps).
• Household items (white goods, furniture, carpeting).
• Medical or dental treatment, therapy, counselling, or rehabilitation.
• Cars, driving lessons, or removal costs.
• Laptops, computers, and iPads.
• Daily living costs (rent, utility bills, clothing, mobile phones, travel) or debt repayment.
• Equipment for residents in care homes operated by Barchester Healthcare or any other care home company.

Eligible Expenditure

For groups:

• Activity projects.
• Equipment/materials for use by members.
• Transport costs to enable members to attend.
• Day trips, outings, or UK group holidays.

For individuals:

• Manual and powered wheelchairs.
• Mobility scooters.
• Specialised trikes/bikes.
• Car adaptations.

How To Apply

Applications are made via the online form on the Foundation's website.

Group applications: Open quarterly in January, April, July, and October. The next window opens on 1st July 2026. It takes up to 10 weeks to process an application. Applicants must have a cost breakdown/budget and latest annual accounts ready to upload.

Individual applications: Can be made at any time. It takes up to 10 weeks to process an application.

Contact: Visit the Barchester's Charitable Foundation website for further information.