THE BENEVOLENT FUND
The Tobacco Pipe Makers and Tobacco Trade Benevolent Fund (Charity no.1135646) was formed in 2010 by merging the then existing Benevolent Fund with the Tobacco Trade Benevolent Association, first established in 1860.
One of the original functions of any Livery Company was the welfare of its members. Members paid a fee called quarterage, which supported those too ill or infirm to work, or to pay for funerals. Livery Companies were also seen as reliable bodies to act as trustees for other charitable bequests. This philanthropic tradition continues today.
The Benevolent Fund supports a wide range of UK registered charities through its General Fund (listed below) and its Welfare Fund helps people in need who have worked in the tobacco trade in any capacity, or their dependants.
Grants and support are subject to careful criteria and review.
Company members are asked to donate annually to the Benevolent Fund. Donations (which can qualify for Gift Aid) provide the money the Fund’s charitable giving. The Benevolent Fund is run, independently, by a Board of Trustees (who are typically also Company members). The Benevolent Fund assets are managed by professional investment managers with specialist knowledge of investment of charitable funds, and the Benevolent Fund takes a prudent approach to investment as set out in its Risk Appetite Statement.
OUR FUND HAS TWO PARTS
General Fund: This supports many charities. Our Company members can also ask the Fund to support their own charity fundraising efforts, up to £1000 per request. Apply to the General Fund here. (Liverymen only.)
Welfare Fund: Applications are considered on the basis of need and length of service in the tobacco trade. Find out more and how to apply here.
CAN YOU DONATE?
If you would like to support the work of the Benevolent Fund, please click here to donate now, and thank you! To the charities and people you are supporting, every penny makes a real difference.