The Nellie Fenton Trust Fund

About the Trust

Purpose & Values

We provide targeted assistance to individuals and households facing immediate need or hardship. Our work prioritises dignity and discretion, seeking practical outcomes that improve daily life. We aim to complement—not replace—existing public services, ensuring our limited resources are used where they can have real impact.

Discreet, respectful assistance for those in genuine need
Transparent stewardship and careful decision-making
Support that strengthens community resilience

What We Fund

We consider small grants to support essential items and services, including—but not limited to—basic household goods, urgent equipment, mobility aids, clothing for extreme weather, and other needs where a modest contribution can be life-improving.

Essential household items and emergency provisions
Personal wellbeing and accessibility equipment
Community-led initiatives with clear public benefit

How We Decide

Applications are reviewed for clarity of need, urgency, feasibility, and relevance to our charitable remit. The Trust acts with prudence and care, seeking the greatest good within available means.

Clear evidence of need and purpose
Proportionality and feasibility of the request
Local connection to Cranbrook and surrounding areas

“Our role is to enable practical help—quietly and promptly—so that dignity is preserved and community is strengthened.

Grants

Types of Support

Small grants to alleviate immediate hardship
One-off contributions to essential purchases
Targeted support for projects with clear local benefit

How to Apply

Prepare a short statement describing your situation and need
Include a breakdown of costs (quotes if available)
Provide contact details of a referee (e.g., support worker)
Submit by email; we will acknowledge and review promptly

We may request additional information to verify details or to better assess the most suitable form of assistance.

Eligibility

Who Can Apply

Residents of Cranbrook, Kent, or those with strong local ties
Individuals or small community groups seeking essential aid
Applications that demonstrate a clear, practical outcome

What We Don’t Fund

Political campaigning or activity outside our charitable remit
Ongoing operational costs for large organisations
Requests without sufficient information or evidence

Assessment Considerations

Urgency and proportionality of the request
Availability of alternative support or referrals
Overall benefit to the applicant and the community

History & Legacy

Foundational Principles

Established with a simple purpose: to respond practically to local need. From the beginning, the Trust embraced careful stewardship and a commitment to fairness.
20th Century Stewardship

Throughout the 20th century, trustees continued a conservative approach to resource management, balancing prudence with the imperative to act where help could be most effective.
Today

The Trust remains dedicated to discreet, dignified support. We work alongside local partners to identify genuine need and deliver modest grants that make a meaningful difference.

Our legacy is measured not in grand gestures, but in quiet moments of relief—keeping homes warm, ensuring mobility, and helping neighbours through difficult times.