Huge demand delays decision process for Jane Tomlinson Appeal’s Big Charity Giveaway

The Appeal is now asking applicants for patience as Trustees carefully review each submission.

On 8 January, the Appeal announced the £250,000 ‘Big Charity Giveaway’ – a significant funding initiative designed to support charities and organisations across Yorkshire, the Midlands and the Liverpool City Region.

Those eligible were invited to apply for grants ranging from a few hundred pounds up to £15,000 to help strengthen their work and support their communities. With applications now closed, interest has far exceeded expectations, reaching £4 million in requests.

The Appeal has received applications from charities working across a wide range of causes, including poverty alleviation, elderly care, cancer services, youth projects and disability support.

The volume of requests reflects both the vital work happening within communities and the significant pressures many organisations face. The Appeal is grateful for the time and care applicants put into their submissions and remains committed to considering each one thoroughly.

Due to the volume of applications, the Trustees have confirmed that the decision-making process will take longer than initially anticipated. It is hoped that successful applicants will be notified in March.

This significant grant round continues the legacy of the late Jane Tomlinson CBE – the inspirational athlete and fundraiser whose determination and generosity helped transform lives across the UK and beyond. Over the years, The Jane Tomlinson Appeal has supported numerous charities and community projects focused on cancer care, bereavement services, mental health, and initiatives that enhance the physical and emotional wellbeing of children and young people.

Mike Tomlinson, Jane’s husband and Trustee of The Jane Tomlinson Appeal said: “The 2026 Big Charity Giveaway is all about continuing Jane’s legacy of helping others, giving charities across our regions the chance to grow, reach more people, and change even more lives.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the response, with £4million worth of applications submitted. It’s a testament to the incredible work happening across regions, and to Jane’s Legacy – but it also highlights just how stretched many organisations are as they work to keep vital services running.

“Given the volume of applications, the Trustees will need more time than expected to make our decisions. We want to ensure every submission receives the same care and consideration that applicants invested in preparing them. We look forward to announcing the successful recipients in due course and celebrating the positive impact these grants will help deliver.”