The focus of the Trust is to support projects that benefit children, young people or adults with a disability who live in Devon or Cornwall, including physical, learning, mental and sensory disabilities. The trustees will consider applications for a wide range of projects such as activities, advice and support, capital projects including new equipment or building work, core costs, salaries and training.

The Trust places emphasis on supporting small but impactful charities with strong volunteer bases, aiming to strengthen the capacity of organisations that can make a tangible difference in their communities. Applications are welcome from registered charities, and in certain cases, Community Interest Companies or other not-for-profit organisations. The minimum grant awarded is £5,000, with no upper limit for registered charities. For CICs and not-for-profit organisations, the maximum grant available is £14,999. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate how they will secure additional funding alongside the grant request, such as community fundraising, charging fees for services, or applying to other funders.

Applications are submitted through an online eligibility questionnaire, followed by a full application form where supporting documents can be attached. A covering letter and budget are required for all applications, while most applicants should also include a cash flow forecast and annual accounts. For capital funding requests, quotes, plans, or architect’s drawings should be provided.

The trustees review applications four times a year in January, April, July, and October, with deadlines usually four weeks before each meeting. Applicants will be informed of decisions within two to three weeks of the trustee meeting, although some applications may be deferred if additional information is needed. Successful applicants must sign a grant agreement and provide banking details, with payments typically made within one to two weeks thereafter.

Organisations that receive funding must wait two years before reapplying, ensuring the Trust can reach a wide range of projects across Devon and Cornwall. The Trust does not provide funding to individuals or projects outside of these two counties.

For more information, visit The Clare Milne Trust.