Deadline: 05-Jan-2026
The Wolfson Foundation offers UK-based charities and local authorities funding to improve care and services for older adults, focusing on those with neurodegenerative conditions or social isolation. Grants support new builds, refurbishment, and essential equipment, with funding decisions made twice a year. Eligible applicants must demonstrate regulatory compliance, financial stability, and capacity to deliver impactful projects.
Overview
The Wolfson Foundation Funding for Charities supports projects that enhance facilities and services for older people. The program focuses on:
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Supporting older adults with neurodegenerative conditions (e.g., dementia)
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Reducing social isolation
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Enhancing facilities through new builds, refurbishments, and equipment
The program ensures projects are sustainable, impactful, and maintain high standards of care.
Funding Details
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Grant range: Typically £40,000–£75,000
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Minimum grant: £25,000
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Match funding:
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Projects costing £50,000–£80,000 may require partial match funding
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Projects over £80,000 typically require 25% match funding
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Eligible costs: New buildings, refurbishment work, essential equipment
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Ineligible costs: Land or building purchase, salaries, VAT, overheads, general appeals, events, promotional materials, films, loan repayments, completed projects
Funding decisions are made twice yearly (June and December). Projects must remain incomplete until funding is awarded.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible organizations must:
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Be a registered or exempt charity in the UK, or a local authority
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Have at least a ‘Good’ rating from a regulator such as the CQC (if applicable)
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Be UK-based, with the project delivered in the UK
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Exclude organizations primarily offering carer support, therapy, hospital services, ex-armed forces support, or equipment lending, unless directly serving older adults with disabilities or mental health needs
How to Apply / Application Process
Stage 1 – Initial Submission
Applicants submit:
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Project description and objectives
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Total cost and funding shortfall
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Project timetable
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Confirmation of support from Chief Executive or equivalent
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Audited accounts for the last two years
Deadline: 5 January at 23:59
Stage 2 – Full Application (Invitation Only)
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Must have 25% of capital costs secured for projects over £80,000
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Planning permission must be in place
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Include detailed project plan, budget, and milestones
Tips and Common Mistakes
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Ensure the project is not already completed
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Avoid including ineligible costs (salaries, events, VAT, overheads)
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Provide audited accounts and regulatory confirmation
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Confirm match funding arrangements in advance
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Demonstrate direct impact on older adults
FAQ
1. Who can apply?
UK-registered charities, exempt charities, or local authorities with projects supporting older adults.
2. What projects are eligible?
New builds, refurbishment, and essential equipment for older adult services.
3. Are there funding limits?
Typical grants: £40,000–£75,000; minimum grant: £25,000.
4. Is match funding required?
Yes, partial match funding is needed for projects over £50,000; 25% for projects over £80,000.
5. Can completed projects apply?
No, projects must remain incomplete until a funding decision is made.
6. What costs are ineligible?
Land purchase, salaries, overheads, VAT, events, promotional materials, films, loan repayments, and general appeals.
7. When are funding decisions made?
Twice yearly: June and December.
Why It Matters
The program strengthens services for older people by enhancing facilities, equipment, and care provision. It focuses on improving quality of life for vulnerable adults, particularly those with neurodegenerative conditions or social isolation, while promoting sustainable, high-quality, and regulated care services.
For more information, visit The Wolfson Foundation.