Our History
The Raymond and Blanche Lawson Charitable Trust was created in 1980 by Tonbridge-based property businessman, Raymond Lawson, and his wife Blanche. When the couple died in the early 1980s they bequeathed most of the estate to the Trust. Since then, the Trust has supported a wide range of charitable causes from hospices to children's charities.
The current trustees, along with the former Chair, Philip Thomas, formed The Lawson Trust CIO as the successor of the Raymond & Blanche Lawson Charitable Trust, transferring all the assets into the new CIO. The Lawson Trust remains firmly rooted in Kent with friends of the couple and descendants of the Lawsons' friends guiding the work of the trust.
Our Purpose
The Lawson Trust is committed to leveraging its resources to create a positive impact within the communities of Kent and Sussex. The trustees are focused on nurturing partnerships with grass-roots organisations and ensuring that our grant-making efforts lead to meaningful and lasting change. By honouring the legacy of Raymond and Blanche Lawson, we strive to remain open to a wide range of charitable organisations, welcoming diverse initiatives that uplift communities.
Who We Fund
We fund registered charities that benefit people who live in Kent and Sussex. Whilst we do support national charities that engage with beneficiaries and volunteers in Kent and Sussex, priority is increasingly given to organisations rooted in Kent and Sussex. Please see our Funding page for our full funding guidelines.
