About the Forrester Trusts

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We’ve been helping small charities work towards a just and equitable society since 1986.

The Trust owes its existence to the generosity of the Forrester family, Donald and Gwyneth, together with their daughter Wendy who continues to act as a trustee to this date.

A history of the Forrester Family Trust

1986

Gwyneth Forrester forms the Donald Forrester Trust in memory of her late husband with an initial donation of £3.6m.

1999

Gwyneth Forrester dies on 11th February.

2000

The Gwyneth Forrester Trust is formed in accordance with Gwyneth Forrester’s wishes, with an initial donation of £21m.

2010

Total grants made to charities since inception pass £20m.

2020

The Trustees of both the Donald Forrester Trust and Gwyneth Forrester Trust agree to merge their activities and form The Forrester Family Trust.
Wendy Forrester makes a donation to the newly formed Trust of £4.6m.
Total grants made to charities since inception pass £30m.

2021

The Forrester Family Trust commences grant making.

2023

Wendy Forrester awarded an MBE in the King’s birthday honours list.

Read our 5-year strategy document

Our strategy from 2021 to 2026 details the values and priorities which will help us work towards a just and equitable society, and support excellent charities to help people facing significant disadvantage.

Download extracts from our 2021-2026 strategy document (Powerpoint)

Isolation and loneliness are big issues for the people we support as they struggle to get out and about. We are receiving many referrals for our new Emotional Wellbeing service from sight loss organisations in the area – we are excited to report on the difference your grant has made.

Rachel Nutting, Trust and Grant Officer Devon in Sight