About us
For nearly four centuries, the Campden Charities have been addressing the needs of low-income Kensington residents. Our experience helps us to understand the challenges that they have. We emphasise education and training in order to progress and navigate the future.
Our beginning
In 1629 Baptist Hicks, 1st Viscount Campden made provision in his will to help the poor of the Parish of Kensington. The endowment of Lord Campden’s widow, Elizabeth Hicks, Lady Campden was added in 1643. This enabled the purchase of Charecroft Estate, Butt’s Field (now Hyde Park Gate and Kensington Gate), the income from which was to be used ‘the good and benefit of the poor of the Parish forever’ and ‘to put forth one poor boy or more to be apprentices and one half towards the better relief of the most poor and needy people that be of good life and conversation’.
Our founder: Baptist Hicks, 1st Viscount Campden
Our aim
For nearly four centuries, the Campden Charities have faithfully honoured the intentions of our esteemed founders by addressing the needs of Kensington residents. The majority of our beneficiaries encounter various obstacles hindering their journey towards financial independence and personal fulfilment, having often to rely on state benefits in order to make ends meet. These obstacles include mental and physical health problems, and with the high cost of living, also limited opportunities to train and study. We know that it is not easy to get past these challenges, especially when you have a limited support network. Often overcoming these obstacles is no easy task. Our main aim is to support people in training and give chances to learn to those who are not working or are stuck in low-paid employment. We also support individuals who are not work ready as a part of their journey to employment
Our areas of grant giving
We have four key areas of support and as an individual or a family, you may always apply for all of them
Students and learners
Support for those in full-time education, whether they're at sixth form, university, college, or undergoing vocational training. This includes grants for course fees, qualifications, oyster cards and bursaries.
Job seekers
Support for job seekers such as CV writing services, interview guidance, assistance with job searching, and cash grants for interview clothing and essentials such as DBS check fee or certain licences. We cannot offer support for driving lessons.
Employed
Support for employed through contributions towards childcare expenses, Oyster cards for commute to work, essential tools for work, and facilitating opportunities for upskilling in order to gain better paid employment.
Not working
Support for individuals who are not employed by providing grants aimed at reducing social isolation, such as gym memberships or participation in local classes, workshops and events, as well as financial awards to encourage and assist those new to volunteering. All as a part of journey to employment