Cambridge in Need

Cambridge in Need grant allocation

The Cambridge in Need branch of UCC is dedicated to “relieving either generally or individually persons residing in the City of Cambridge who are in conditions of need, hardship or distress by making grants of money or providing or paying for items, services or facilities calculated to reduce the need, hardship or distress of such persons”. The Trustees may implement this by giving grants to individuals, institutions or organisations which meet these criteria.

UCC works with the Cambridge Community Foundation (CCF) to consider applications made by eligible charities and organisations. Applications can be for a minimum of £5K up to a maximum of £20K in a single year, or £30K over 3 years. A panel of trustees and representatives of CCF meet regularly to consider applications and allocate funds.

UCC continues to support Cambridge Aid with funding as they deliver support directly to individuals in need for emergency purchases of white goods, food and clothing. Cambridge Aid, (formerly known as the Cambridge Central Aid Society, CCAS), give grants to individuals in urgent need of basic items and who have been referred by organisations such as Social Services, Citizens Advice Bureau and the City Council.

Prior to 2023, this area of UCC’s activities was known as “Relief in Need” branch.

Hobson & Crane Educational Grants

Also known as Hobson & Crane Exhibition Foundation or Hobson & Crane Educational Funds. Please refer to the History section for the background of this strand.

UCC previously allocated small sums to the Red Hen Project (Red Hen Project) and Romsey Mill (Romsey Mill) under the Hobson and Crane Educational grants scheme. Both charities are encouraged to apply for funds via the Cambridge in Need grant allocation process, to ensure the funding is in the most useful format for their needs. The criteria for the new funding process were designed to embrace the educational aspirations of the original donor of the Hobson and Crane fund.