Want to apply to a local charitable trust? Let’s do it the right way

Local charitable trusts can be a brilliant source of funding to help you run activities that make a real difference in your community. But before you apply, it’s really important to speak with the Fundraising Team.

Because your group shares a charity number with the MS Society, we need to make sure our central fundraising team isn’t already applying to the same trust. Otherwise, we risk sending two applications, which could minimise the opportunity for a successful application and prevent future applications.

Planning for success

Start by chatting with your Regional Development Officer (RDO) or Community Development Officer (CDO) about your project. Think about the following:

• What do you want to do?

• Who will it help?

• What problem are you solving?

Once you’ve got a clear plan and a simple budget drawn up, email [email protected] and copy in your RDO or CDO.

One volunteer should take the lead on the application and be the main contact for your project. If you need help with documents or policies, just ask – we’re here to support you where we can.

After you apply

If your application is successful – congratulations!

Here are some key considerations and actions you should now take:

• Make sure you thank the trust in writing.

• Let your Finance Volunteer know how to code the grant correctly.

• If the funding is for a specific activity, it’s restricted and must be used for that purpose.

• Keep track of what you do with the money – how many people took part, what changed and any feedback or photos. This will help you write a short report for the trust and could open the door to future funding opportunities.

If you have any questions, email [email protected].