Jean Sainsbury Animal Welfare Trust

Who we are

The Jean Sainsbury Animal Welfare Trust was set up in 1982, by Mrs Jean Sainsbury (no relation to the supermarket family)  and is a registered charity (No. 326358). Since the first grants were awarded in 1983 the Trust has given over £12.5 million to animal welfare charities.

The Trust donates to UK registered charities which are actively engaged in one or more of the following:

• to benefit or protect animals
• to relieve animals from suffering
• to conserve wild life
• to encourage the understanding of animals

The Trust has a focus on supporting smaller animal welfare charities, where relatively modest grants can have a significant impact on the welfare of animals and the people caring for them. It invites applications for funding three times a year, which are then reviewed against specific criteria.

The Trust has eight Trustees including two practising veterinary surgeons, one of whom is a partner in a mixed small animal, farm animal and equine practice and the other specialises in birds and wildlife.

Our culture and values

The Trust has core values of empathy and compassion. It understands applications come from all kinds of different organisations, some with large administrative teams and paid fundraisers, others being run by just a few dedicated volunteers. Trustees and the Administrator work together to ensure applicants are supported through the process and that the Trust's criteria are met so that the application can be considered.

The Trust consists of 2 administrative staff and a board of volunteer Trustees. A friendly, supportive working environment has been fostered, with a high level of independance and flexibility on offer to employees.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

The Trust has policies in place to help ensure fairness and inclusivity.