The CLA Charitable Trust is an independent grant-making trust that is funded almost entirely by CLA members' donations. It was founded in 1980 by members of the CLA and since then, the trustees have continued the aims of the trust: to expand knowledge of, and access to, the countryside, particularly for disadvantaged people, through grants totalling more than £2m.
Today, the Trust provides educational bursaries within the rural sector and continues to support a wide variety of charities, community projects and not-for-profit organisations in England and Wales.
In 2022, the Trust offered 61 grants and provided funding worth more than £236k including multiannual grants to specific charities whose work is particularly aligned with the Trust’s vision.
The Trust's objectives are to:
- Advance people’s physical and mental health and wellbeing through financial support of charities, not-for-profit organisations and social enterprises, which are delivering access, recreational and educational opportunities within and about the countryside.
- To promote and encourage education in sustainable farming, food production and rural land management.
Some examples of projects The CLA Charitable Trust funded in the North East:
- Hextol Foundation | £2,750 | Hexham Equipment for intergenerational horticulture project.
- Randoms Retreat | £2,669| Consett Safe and secure fencing and hedging around our sensory garden, benefiting horticulture and rewilding activities.
- Oak Tree Farm | £3,000 | Sunderland Conversion of old toilet block into shower room and staff room at rural working environment for people with disabilities.
Applications are particularly welcomed for projects for children and young people who are disadvantaged financially, physically, mentally, or from areas of deprivation. The funding will support projects, capital works and running costs.
Find out more about The CLA Charitable Trust and how to apply for funding here.