About
The Henry Smith Foundation is one of the UK's largest independent funders, established in 1628 through the legacy of Henry Smith, a London businessman who dedicated his wealth to support people facing hardship. The Foundation backs organisations and their leaders with bold ideas dedicated to making social change now. Their resources empower people who are economically or socially excluded and support those in adversity to thrive. They focus on life's toughest transitions, where the right support can prevent harm, unlock potential and lead to lasting change. In 2024 they awarded £61.9 million, supporting over 900 organisations and reaching 410,000 people across the UK.
Funding Opportunities
Clergy Grants - Christian Grants Programme
The Christian Grants programme supports initiatives that promote Anglican Clergy Wellbeing. Grants of £10,000 or more per year are available for up to three years to churches, charities, and not-for-profit organisations within the UK with an annual income up to £1 million. Projects should focus on services like peer support groups, retreats, mentoring, or pastoral care to support clergy with their health and wellbeing. Applicants need to have a track record of delivering similar work and have been established for at least 18 months. The foundation welcomes applications from organisations affiliated with the Church of England, the Church in Wales, the Scottish Episcopal Church, or the Church of Ireland. Applications can be submitted at any time, and decisions are made in under five months.
Holiday Grants
The Holiday Grants Programme offers one-off grants for schools, youth groups and non-profit organisations to take children aged 13 and under on recreational day trips or short residential trips. The programme helps provide memorable experiences that can have a lasting impact, boosting wellbeing, building confidence, and offering a break from daily pressures for children who face financial hardship, systemic inequity or disability. The foundation prioritises groups supporting disabled children and those with limited access to funds to go on holiday, with 60% of grants in 2025 going to organisations working in the UK's most deprived areas. Trips must be recreational only with no educational or religious aims, and must take place within the UK, Isle of Man or Channel Islands.
Kindred Grants
The Kindred Grants programme provides financial, emotional, and practical support to descendants of Henry Smith's sister, Joane. When Henry Smith died in 1628, his Will included a legacy to help members of his family (his 'Kindred') in financial need. Today, more than 4,500 people are registered as Kindred, and the Foundation awarded 472 grants to 223 people in 2024. The programme offers a range of help including low income support for adults on low incomes (retired or working), one-off costs for essential household items like replacing a washing machine, and financial assistance for students taking their first degree at a UK university. Financial assistance is mainly for those with low incomes and is tailored to individual circumstances. The programme also includes a free, confidential helpline open to all Kindred regardless of income, providing support for mental and physical health, financial advice, personal issues, befriending, counselling services, and legal advice. The Foundation works with partners including Charis for streamlined support delivery, The OT Practice for occupational therapy assessments, and Pennysmart for money and debt advice.
At a Glance
- Total Funding Opportunities
- 6
- Active Now
- 3
- Source Domain
- henrysmith.foundation
Catalog Data
This funder profile was automatically extracted from grant listings. Information may be incomplete.
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