The Foundation funds work that benefits elderly people, generally those in their 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. We have seen increasing demand in this category with 30-45 grants being made each year.

The aim in this category is to reduce loneliness and isolation, improve physical and mental wellbeing, help maintain independence and a quality of life for older people.

We will focus funding to help reduce the significant issues faced by the elderly and help them remain an important part of their community. That will include people who live in care homes as well as those who remain in their own homes. Activities that will be considered will include befriending schemes, handyman services, intergenerational projects, access to transport and other services. Also advice services that help alleviate pensioner and fuel poverty, advocacy services and support that protect the elderly from any form of abuse.

The Foundation recognises the growing impact of dementia within the older population and on families, especially those who care for people with dementia. We are keen to support projects that seek to develop community initiatives that offer sustainable, long term support for older people in communities.

Lunch clubs and social activities can still be considered where the applicant meets the criteria in this category – but this will be part of a smaller grant programme for grants up to £2,000.

HOW TO APPLY

Please check our criteria, and the guidance within the particular funding programme your work fits, before applying.

We use an online application system. To access our online application form we ask that you complete an eligibility questionnaire first.

If your answers to the quiz confirm you are eligible to apply, you will be directed to our application form.

If you are unable to use this or have problems accessing the forms, or  have any queries about making an application you are encouraged to email us for clarification.

When we have received your application we will be in touch (usually within two weeks) to either:

  • Ask for any further information
  • Tell you if your application will be put forward to the next stage of assessment and give a timetable for a final decision
  • Tell you that we cannot help

Processing an application and making a grant usually takes between two and six months.

If further information is needed this will be requested and a visit may be arranged where the application can be discussed in more detail. Our Trustees meet to discuss grant applications three times a year, generally in February, June and October.

You can apply anytime – we process applications all through the year, and will come back to you within a couple of weeks with our initial thoughts.

Please read through all the sections in this part of the website and make sure you are eligible to apply.

Your work will need to meet our aims, and specifically fit one of the seven funding programmes we run.

Check carefully that your organisation fits our criteria, and that your work does not come within the list of exclusions.

PLEASE NOTE:  OUR OCTOBER MEETING IS NOW CLOSED FOR NEW APPLICATIONS.

All applications received now, until early December will be considered in the lead up to the following Trustee meeting in February 2026.   

Please apply as soon as you are ready – don’t leave it to the last minute!

For more information please visit – Applying for funding – The Allen Lane Foundation