The Jane Tomlinson Appeal has been overwhelmed to the response for its new grant programme – the Big Charity Giveaway 2026.
The appeal was launched last month, inviting applications from Liverpool City Region, Yorkshire, and The Midlands to apply for funds from the overall total of £250,000.
The response has been incredible, with applications totaling more than £4million. The charity is now asking applicants for patience as trustees carefully review each submission.
Grant applications from across Liverpool City Region reached almost £750,000.
The appeal was launched early January, announcing the £250,000 Big Charity Giveaway 2026 – a significant funding initiative designed to support charities and organisations across Liverpool City Region, Yorkshire, and The Midlands. Those eligible were invited to apply for grants ranging from a few hundred pounds up to £15,000 maximum, 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 which enhance the physical and emotional wellbeing of children and young people.
Mike Tomlinson, Jane’s husband and Trustee of the Jane Tomlinson Appeal, explained:
“The Big Charity Giveaway 2026 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.”
