Deadline: 01-Jul-2026
The Wolfson Foundation provides capital funding to charities and local authorities delivering services for older people, especially those with neurodegenerative conditions or social isolation. Grants typically range from £25,000 to £75,000 and support projects involving new buildings, refurbishments, or equipment, with a minimum capital cost requirement of £50,000.
About the Wolfson Foundation Older People’s Care Programme
The Wolfson Foundation supports organisations that improve the quality of care and services for older people. The focus is on strengthening infrastructure and service delivery for individuals who may be experiencing:
- Neurodegenerative conditions (such as dementia)
- Social isolation
- Age-related health challenges
- Reduced access to care services
The programme prioritises long-term improvements in care environments and service capacity.
Program Focus Areas
Funding is designed to strengthen both physical infrastructure and service quality.
Key focus areas include:
- Care and support for older people
- Services for individuals with neurodegenerative conditions
- Support for socially isolated older adults
- Development of new care facilities
- Refurbishment of existing buildings
- Purchase of essential equipment
- Expansion of service access
- Improvement in service quality and range
- Organisational sustainability and long-term resilience
What Types of Projects Are Funded?
Eligible projects must involve capital investment.
This includes:
- New building construction for care services
- Renovation or refurbishment of existing facilities
- Purchase of medical or care-related equipment
- Upgrades that improve accessibility or service delivery
Projects must demonstrate clear benefits for older people and improved care environments.
Funding Requirements
The programme has specific financial thresholds:
- Minimum grant size: £25,000
- Typical grant range: £40,000 – £75,000
- Minimum capital project cost: £50,000
- Required capital funding shortfall: at least £25,000
Funding is intended to complement other sources of capital funding rather than fully finance projects.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Registered charities
- Exempt charities
- Equivalent nonprofit organisations
- Local authorities
Organisations must demonstrate strong governance and operational capacity.
Regulatory Requirements
Where applicable, organisations are expected to have:
- At least a “Good” rating from relevant regulators (e.g., CQC in the UK)
- Strong safeguarding and care standards
- Compliance with sector regulations
Key Objectives of the Programme
The Wolfson Foundation aims to:
- Improve care environments for older people
- Increase access to high-quality services
- Support vulnerable and isolated individuals
- Strengthen healthcare and social care infrastructure
- Enhance long-term sustainability of care providers
- Improve dignity, independence, and wellbeing in later life
Why This Funding Matters
Ageing populations and increasing rates of neurodegenerative conditions create growing pressure on care systems.
This funding is important because it:
- Improves physical care infrastructure
- Enhances quality of life for older adults
- Reduces isolation and loneliness
- Strengthens community-based care systems
- Supports better clinical and social outcomes
- Enables organisations to modernise facilities
How to Apply
Applicants typically follow these steps:
Step 1: Identify Capital Need
Determine whether the project involves:
- New construction
- Refurbishment
- Equipment purchase
Step 2: Define Service Impact
Explain how the project will improve:
- Care quality
- Service accessibility
- Patient wellbeing
- Organisational sustainability
Step 3: Confirm Financial Eligibility
Ensure:
- Minimum capital cost is £50,000
- Funding gap is at least £25,000
- Co-funding sources are identified
Step 4: Prepare Supporting Documentation
Include:
- Organisational details
- Regulatory ratings (if applicable)
- Project plans and budgets
- Evidence of need
- Sustainability strategy
Step 5: Submit Application
Submit the proposal through the Wolfson Foundation’s application process with all required documentation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid:
- Applying for non-capital projects
- Insufficient capital cost thresholds
- Weak evidence of service impact
- Missing regulatory compliance information
- Lack of co-funding strategy
- Projects unrelated to older people’s care
- Overestimating project outcomes without evidence
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for Wolfson Foundation funding?
Registered charities, exempt charities, equivalent organisations, and local authorities.
2. What is the funding range?
Typically between £40,000 and £75,000, with a minimum grant of £25,000.
3. What types of projects are supported?
New builds, refurbishments, and equipment purchases for older people’s care services.
4. Is revenue funding allowed?
No. Funding is strictly for capital projects.
5. What is the minimum project cost?
Projects must have a minimum capital cost of £50,000.
6. Do applicants need regulatory approval?
Yes, where applicable, organisations should have at least a “Good” rating from regulators such as the CQC.
7. What is the main goal of this programme?
To improve care quality, access, and sustainability for older people, especially those with complex health needs.
Conclusion
The Wolfson Foundation’s funding programme provides essential capital support for organisations improving care services for older people. By investing in buildings, refurbishment, and equipment, the programme strengthens service quality, enhances accessibility, and supports long-term sustainability in care provision for vulnerable older populations.
For more information, visit The Wolfson Foundation.
