The objectives of the Trust are framed in general terms to work for a just and democratic society and to redress political and social injustices. It is a wide ranging remit for reform, and the Trust concentrates exclusively on groups or individuals that are ineligible for charitable funding because they are considered too political or radical to come within the Charity Commission’s guidelines. The Trust's approach is similar to that of the Joseph Rowntree Reform Trust with which it maintains informal links.

The Trust will support work undertaken at both regional and national level and occasionally overseas. It may also consider pioneering projects operating on a more local basis that have a potentially wider impact.

In special cases it may make a personal award to an individual in support of outstanding commitment and effectiveness relevant to the Trust’s interests.
As a general rule the Trust provides either specific project funding or start up grants for a limited period to enable campaigns to get off the ground and attract alternative sources of finance.

• The Trust will not assist activities, including research, which could be funded by charitable trusts.


• Anything to do with animals


• Conservation of buildings


• The arts


• Pure research