Grant News
Mental health organisations in the UK can apply to the Allen Lane Foundation for grants of up to £15,000 to support work with people experiencing moderate or severe mental health conditions. The programme aims to reduce isolation, stigma and discrimination associated with mental health while promoting recovery and inclusion.
Priority is given to specialist mental health organisations and user-led groups. One-to-one counselling or therapy is not funded under this stream.
Funding can be awarded as a single grant or spread over two or three years, with most awards averaging £5,000–£6,000.
Eligibility is geared to smaller, community-focused organisations. The Foundation accepts applications from UK-based registered charities and other charitable not-for-profits, including some CICs where activities are wholly charitable.
As a guide, local groups typically have annual income below £100,000, while UK-wide organisations should be under £250,000. Grants are made across the UK except for work carried out within Greater London; London-based organisations remain eligible if beneficiaries are not solely in London.
The Foundation does not fund individuals or public bodies such as schools, NHS organisations or councils.
Funding can cover running and core costs, salaries, or project expenses, with emphasis on lasting impact and organisational sustainability. In recent years the mental health stream has awarded 15–27 grants per year totalling around £110,000. Across all programme areas, the Foundation typically makes 130–150 grants, distributing £720,000–£800,000 annually.
Full guidance, eligibility details and application information are available on the Allen Lane Foundation’s website (link below). Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate clear outcomes, strong local need and how the work will complement existing mental health support in their communities.
All applications received now, until early December will be considered in the lead up to the following Trustee meeting in February 2026.
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