About

About The Rufus Trust

The Rufus Trust is a registered charity that was founded in 1989 in memory of Rufus Hedderwick, who had severe learning disabilities. We provide grants to families in Warwickshire who have a member with a learning disability, helping them enjoy day activities, short breaks and holidays that they would otherwise be unable to afford.

For many of the families we support, everyday life can be exceptionally demanding. They may be coping with illness, emotional difficulties, single parenthood, challenging behaviour, financial pressures or loneliness. A break does not make these difficulties disappear, but it can give a family the opportunity to spend enjoyable time together, experience something different, have some fun and return home refreshed.

Who can apply?

We can provide a grant where:

• the family has a member with a learning disability;

• the family is in need of a break or holiday; and

• the family has no other means of affording one.

Our grants typically average £700–£800 per family. Applications are made through schools or Social Services, whose professionals are able to provide the Trustees with the social, medical and financial information needed to assess an application. The Trustees then aim to make a decision within a week. 

Our impact

The impact of this support is reflected in the feedback we receive from professionals and families. One social worker told us: 

“I have always appreciated the simple application process and the very swift response from the Fund, which is a particular delight in these complicated days.”

Another said:

“You make such a considerable difference to the lives of not only the young people but also their parents and siblings.”

And, from a beneficiary:

“If the work of the charity is helping other children and families as much as it has ours, its value is truly beyond measure.”

A longer list of testimonials is here. 

Why our work matters

Over the past decade, we have seen a significant increase both in the number of applications we receive and in the amount families need to make a break possible. Although the coronavirus pandemic temporarily reduced our grant-making activity, demand has subsequently increased, and the continuing cost-of-living pressures mean that our support is more important than ever.

We are committed to ensuring that families caring for someone with a learning disability are not denied the opportunity to enjoy a holiday or special experience simply because they cannot afford it. And as our charity is run very efficiently, with minimal expenses, as much as possible of the money we raise goes directly towards helping families.

The Rufus Trust is always grateful for opportunities to raise funds and awareness. If you would like to find out more about our work, support the charity or discuss fundraising opportunities, please get in touch with the Trustees.