Who and what we fund
The people making the biggest difference are often the ones closest to their communities.
That's why we support charities across Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire that are creating opportunities for children and young people, helping older people stay connected, and building stronger communities for everyone.
Funding that starts with people
We're not looking for the perfect application. We're looking for organisations that know their communities, care about the people they serve, and want to make a lasting difference.
Who we fund
The fund focuses on two groups where we believe targeted support can make the biggest difference.
Children and young people under 18
Projects that create opportunities, build confidence, develop skills and support young people to grow — whether through mentoring, leadership programmes, creative activities or community initiatives.
Adults aged 65 and over
Projects that reduce isolation, strengthen connection, support independence and help older people live happier, healthier and more fulfilled lives.
Built for organisations that are already doing the work
We believe some of the most important work happens close to home.
That's why the Lady Helen Wood Fund is open to registered charities and Charitable Incorporated Organisations (CIOs) based in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire.
We're particularly keen to support organisations with an annual income of less than £1 million, including those at the beginning of their journey. Starting a charity takes determination, and we know building evidence of impact often comes after you've secured the support to make it happen.
If you're helping children and young people under 18 discover new opportunities, or supporting adults aged 65 and over to live connected, fulfilling lives, we'd love to hear your story.
What funding can cover
Every project is different, so we've kept the fund flexible. Funding can support:
-
Project delivery costs
-
Equipment
-
Core costs and organisational overheads (full cost recovery is actively encouraged).
-
Capital investment
A few requests we're unable to support
To ensure funding reaches as many organisations as possible, there are a small number of requests outside the scope of the fund:
-
Retrospective costs already incurred
-
Projects benefiting only one individual or household
-
Loan repayments, deficit funding or debt reduction
-
General fundraising appeals or unspecified requests
-
Standalone academic research, bursaries or scholarships
-
Work that is a statutory responsibility of government
Think you might be eligible?
We'd love to hear about your work. The application has been designed to be the easiest part of delivering your project.