One of Burton's oldest charities seeks new trustees

One of Burton 's oldest charities, The Consolidated Charity of Burton, is looking to recruit new volunteer trustees.

The Consolidated Charity of Burton is an endowed charity which aims to benefit the residents of Burton by providing almshouse accommodation, making charitable grants to individuals in need and to organisations which serve the community.

It is thought that the Consolidated charity dates back to the 16th century to the time of the dissolution of Burton Abbey and the craft guilds. However, the first recorded reference appeared in 1709 when there was an inquiry into the condition and administration of the Town Lands charities which were later to be amalgamated into the Consolidated Charity.

The charity regularly hands out tens of thousands of pounds in grants to key organisations as well as responding to individuals in need and supporting young people with education bursaries.

In 2021 the charity handed out more than £228,000, comprised of:

Relief in Need Grants Awarded - £76,000

Bursaries Awarded - £57,500

Individual Education Grants Awarded - £1,700

Organisation Grants Awarded - £93,263

The charity has given grants to churches, village halls, sports clubs, theatre groups and many more organisations in the town as well as providing white goods, carpets and other essentials for individuals and families who have fallen on hard times.

Trustees are not paid and are asked to attend the charity 's main meetings, approximately every three to four months, and to sit on one of the sub-committees which meet approximately three times a year.

Trustees are also asked to read and respond to emails and paperwork in between meetings and may be asked to take on special projects related to their background or expertise.

The charity 's chairman Ben Robinson (pictured) said: “We provide a vital lifeline to the people of Burton and are here to support residents and organisations when they need it the most.

“The charity has a long and proud history and is run by a group of trustees who give up their time and expertise to lend a helping hand.

“We are now looking to recruit new trustees who can bring some useful experience and skills to our group, we are especially keen to hear from anyone with an IT background.

“It 's an unpaid role but is very rewarding and anyone who is interested can get in touch with the clerk 's office for more information. ”
Many of the leading figures in Burton history have supported the charity.

Amongst the early benefactors were William Finney, Abbot Beyne School, Lady Paulet, Ellen Parker, Richard Allsopp, Francis Astle, Richard Bowle, Mrs Almond, Mr Robinson, and Elizabeth (Beth) Johnson. Over the centuries the charity has gradually accumulated a number of town properties, workhouses, almshouses and financial bequests from a wide variety of sources.

Find out more at www.consolidatedcharityburton.org.uk or call the clerk 's office on 01283 527067.