Frequently Asked Questions

For Individuals

Can you send me the application form?

No, we have an online application form. All applicants must register and apply online. The only exception is for people whose disability prevents them from being able to access the online form.

Can I send the application form to you by post or email?

No. This is because Trustees review all applications on our online system. The only exception is as stated above, for people with disabilities.

What do you mean by ‘barriers in life and life chances’?

Our grants are made to people whose needs are more than just financial. For example, recent grants have gone to individuals who are qualifying to work after a period in prison, those experiencing poverty as a result of family breakdown and people recovering from illness or addiction. If your only ‘barrier’ is your ability to pay for your training, we are probably not the right charity for you.

I am not sure if the course I am doing is eligible. How can I find out?

We are interested in training that improves your prospects of finding paid work. Your college/training provider or university should be able to offer you advice about this, so make sure you check their website for more information about course outcome.

Your application process is quite time-consuming. Can I be sure I will receive a grant at the end of it?

Unfortunately, no. The Trust has limited funding and receives a very high volume of applications. On average only one in ten of the people who apply is successful in obtaining a grant. This does not mean that you have made a poor application - simply that competition is intense.

I don’t feel like the questions on the application form are relevant to me. Can I leave them blank?

We encourage you to complete the application as fully as possible. The form has been designed to capture all the information we need to make a decision. If a large amount of information is missing, we will not be able to shortlist your application.

How do you make decisions about grants?

Once an application is received, it is considered carefully by the Grants Administrator. A small number of applications are shortlisted for further review. Once we have resolved any queries and taken up references, the shortlisted candidates are considered by the Trustees. Grants are made to those whom Trustees consider most closely match the Thomas Wall Trust’s charitable remit. You will be informed of Trustees’ decision by email.

Can I apply to more than one charity?

Yes. The Trust can usually only give grants of up to £1,000. Therefore we encourage you to research and apply to as many charities as you can. Don’t forget you will need to keep charities informed of any grants received.

I have registered on your website but cannot complete the application form right now. Can I come back to it later?

Yes, but you may have a limited time in which to submit your application. If there has been no activity on your application for more than 30 days you will be sent a reminder. If after that no progress is made, your application may need to be closed.

Do you have a deadline?

We can accept applications from students studying at university (eg postgraduates or for second degrees) either between January to March or until the first 150 applications have been received, whichever is earlier.
We can consider applications from students studying at college or taking other skills-based/technical training from January to August. However, if the volume of applications is very high, we may need to close before August.
All applicants are advised to apply as soon as possible.

I am having technical difficulties with your online application system. What should I do?

Visit our Technical Tips page for possible solutions.

I am in the first year of my course and need help with the second or subsequent year. Can I re-apply?

Yes. Applications open in January for any courses beginning in September of that year, or for further years of a course that has already started.

I am travelling abroad for work experience/gap year. Can I apply for my travel costs and/or fees?

No. The Trust does not support study outside of the UK.

I want to pursue a part-time course. I have to study part-time because I need to continue with a part-time job to support my family. Can I apply for a grant?

Yes, Trustees look favourably on part-time courses which allow applicants to continue in part-time employment.

I am starting a course in the next academic year. Can I apply the year before to improve my chances of obtaining grant support?

No. Please adhere to the website’s guidance on when our windows for receiving applications open and close.

You have emailed me to say my application has been unsuccessful. Can you tell me why?

Unfortunately, we are not able to give specific feedback to unsuccessful applicants. The main reason for not being able to offer a grant is sheer pressure on funds. Only a handful of applicants are successful. If we have to reject your application, it does not necessarily mean your application was poor, simply that competition is intense.


the Thomas Wall Trust Contact us at Louise Pooley [Grants Administrator]
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