FAQs

What is the trust for?

The Charity exists to support young people who are going into further and higher education, training and apprenticeships.  It does this by offering Grants of money.

How long has it been running?

The Charity has been in existence for several hundred years.  In its present form, however, it has been running since 2007.

When can I apply and when and how will I find out if I have been successful?

You can apply at any time during the year, but the deadline for applications is always 30thSeptember.  When the Trustees have met and made a decision about your application the Clerk will write to tell you.  The Clerk will write to you after the trustees meeting which is typically in October.

Who makes the decision about my application?

The decisions made by the Charity are made collectively by the 5 Trustees.  When the Charity was first set up the ‘Vicar, Churchwardens and Overseers of the Poor’ were the Trustees.  In the newer, more modern form the decisions are made by two Parish Councillors, two members of the Parochial Church Council and either the vicar for the time being or the Chair of the Church Council.

What is the connection to the Countess & Earl of Devonshire?

The Charity was set up by the Countess and Earl of Devonshire.  It was their wish to help as many young people from poorer families to access education and training as they could.  They offered money to help them.

How many times can I apply??

You can apply each year that you are in further education or training. So long as you continue to have your home address within the Civil parish of Holmewood and Heath, are aged between 16 and 26 and are continuing in further education and training.

Will it fund educational school/college/university programmes abroad?

Yes.  The Trustees make no stipulations as to how you use your money, though they prefer it not to be spent in the local student union bar!!!

Can I use the Trust to pay for an educational training course?

Yes, that is exactly what it is for.

If there is more than one person in our family eligible to apply can we?

Yes – there is no problem with this happening.  In recent years the Trustees have helped fund two and even three siblings in a family. Whilst ever they qualify to apply their application will be considered.

What do I do with my Grant if I drop out of my course?

If this should happen and you have money left from your Grant the Trustees would ask that you return to them the unspent money.  This can then be applied to supporting other young people.  You would not be expected to repay the whole Grant.