What type of charities do we support?

While not discounting larger established charities, the London Freemasons’ Charity looks more kindly towards smaller registered charities and organisations which reflect charitable purpose. As the focus of the LFC is for smaller London Charities, if a larger established charity applies then it must be shown that the project is for the benefit of London and the residents of London. Request for grants for anything outside London are unlikely to succeed.

For an application from a registered charity the request must be accompanied by the latest Charity Commission return and accounts. For unregistered charities or other charitable purpose, then a similar set of accounts must be submitted showing income, expenses and reserves.

What type of projects do we fund?

Applications will generally be looked upon more favourably if a specific project or requirement is identified rather than a donation into general charity funds.

The London Freemasons’ Charity is particularly interested in supporting children, young and elderly people, opportunities for education and it will also consider supporting a wide range of projects at a local and community level. Grants are not usually awarded to individuals and we do not award grants for core funding, retrospective activity or projects which have already started. The charities that the LFC supports must be seen to be inclusive.

What size of grant can be applied for?

Grants are generally awarded for one year in the range £3,000 to £10,000; occasionally, they may be larger but multi-year grants are only awarded in special cases. Irrespective of the amount, an application must make it clear how the grant will make a significant difference to the work of the charity or a particular project.

What other information should we know?

The Board of Trustees will take into account the level of the applicant’s reserves when assessing whether or not to make a grant. It is expected that any grant will be fully used within twelve months of it being received. Although not a requirement, it is expected that publicity for both the charity and London Freemasons’ Charity should be embraced. On confirmation of a successful application, a member of Metropolitan Grand Lodge Public Relations team may be in touch.

How can London based charities apply for a grant?

All applications for a grant must be received via email to the Executive Assistant to the London Freemasons’ Charity, Elaine Faux. All applications for a grant will be acknowledged by email on receipt. All applications for a grant will be notified by email whether successful or not.

Please read the guidance on applications thoroughly and include as much information as you are able to able. If additional information is required, the charity will be contacted before the application is considered by the Board of Trustees.

Applications are welcomed from charities supported by individual London Lodges through their members, but the application must be made by the charity.

Are we able to re-apply for a grant in the future?

Whether an application for a grant was successful or not, no further application may be submitted until 12 months have elapsed since the date the grant payment or notification of an unsuccessful application.