The Duchy of Lancaster Benevolent Fund is a Registered Charity set up with the consent of His Majesty The King to benefit causes primarily within the County Palatine.
The Duchy Fund now covers the Counties of Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Merseyside. The Trustees of the Fund invite a wide variety of community based Organisations and Chartable causes within these three Counties to apply for a donation that will benefit the local community.
Who Can Apply
The Duchy of Lancaster Benevolent Fund supports charitable organisations and community groups delivering projects that benefit local people.
Applications are welcomed from organisations operating within Greater Manchester.
To be eligible, organisations should:
- Have charitable aims and deliver clear public benefit
- Typically be a registered charity or CIO, with a governing document and trustees
- Be able to demonstrate how the project will benefit the local community
In exceptional cases, funding may be considered for other organisations where the activity clearly supports charitable purposes.
What We Fund
We support a wide range of community-based projects and initiatives, particularly those that:
- Benefit local communities and disadvantaged groups
- Support older people, vulnerable individuals, and those in need of care
- Provide opportunities for young people and education
- Strengthen community connections and participation
- Preserve or enhance local heritage, buildings or assets of community value
Funding is typically used for:
- Specific projects or activities
- Equipment or one-off costs
- Initiatives that deliver a clear and measurable community impact
Grants are usually between £250 and £5,000, with most awards around £2,500.
What We Don’t Normally Fund
The Fund does not support:
- Individuals
- Political or lobbying activities
- Ongoing running costs or salaries
- General fundraising appeals
- Repeat funding for the same organisation within 3 years
- Projects outside the Duchy’s geographical remit
How Applications Are Assessed
All applications are considered on a case-by-case basis by the regional panel, which meets quarterly to review submissions.
Priority is given to:
- Projects with a strong local impact
- New applicants
- Initiatives that demonstrate clear need and benefit
- Work that supports community collaboration
We are particularly keen to support organisations making a meaningful difference within their communities and encourage applications from groups who may not have accessed this funding before.
Download an Application Form
PDF Version
Microsoft Word Version
Completed forms should be sent by email to the Duchy Administrator governance@beyondprofituk.co.uk