Sir Samuel Osborn's Deed of Gift Relief Fund  - The Sir Samuel Osborn Deed of Gift

What you get

You will receive a one-off grant of up to about 1,150 EUR (£1,000) towards further education or training, for example for books, equipment or living costs. The money comes from the ‘Sir Samuel Osborn’s Deed of Gift Relief Fund’, which is administered by the South Yorkshire Community Foundation (SYCF). There is also a second option: if you find yourself in genuine financial hardship, you can use the same amount instead for a recuperative holiday or care, as well as for medical aids and equipment not provided by the NHS. You can only receive one grant per year.

Who can apply

• Connection to the company: You are a former employee of the Samuel Osborn Company (a steel manufacturer based in Sheffield) or one of its subsidiaries. Direct descendants, such as the children or grandchildren of an employee, are also eligible. You will need written proof of this connection.
• Financial need: You are in genuine financial difficulty. People with substantial personal savings are not eligible for financial support.
• Field of study: Every form of education or further training counts.
• Where you study: No institution specified; your choice.
• Nationality: No restrictions; the fund is available throughout the UK.

How to apply

Apply via the SYCF online form. There is no fixed application deadline, so you can apply at any time of the year. Please enclose written evidence of your connection to the Samuel Osborn Group. You will receive a decision within twelve weeks.

How realistic are your chances?

This fund is very specific: you need to demonstrate a family or professional connection to a particular company in Sheffield, as well as a proven financial need. This keeps the pool of eligible applicants small, meaning there is little competition. If you can demonstrate both the connection and the financial need, your chances are good. You can apply at any time of the year, so there is no specific deadline you need to meet.