This article is part of Arena Magazine Issue 60 – Spring 2026.
Arena Magazine is the official online magazine of the London Freemasons – Metropolitan Grand Lodge and Metropolitan Grand Chapter of London.

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The grant means that ALT can recruit more volunteers from the local communities in which we work, before training and matching them to adults in need of life-changing one-to-one reading support. Focusing on their individual needs, London Freemason funding fuels our Reading Coaches’ work: to check learners’ understanding, to build their confidence in reading and their self-esteem, and to maintain their motivation to keep learning. 

Volunteers funded by London Freemasons will lead small groups of learners in informal group sessions, working collectively to focus on navigating practical literacy challenges in everyday life, to boost life skills and to foster an overall appreciation for reading.

ALT matches learners with trained volunteers to provide one-to-one support, as a complement to teaching in formal education settings. Offering a unique solution to systemic challenges perpetuating poverty and hardship in disadvantaged communities, ALT’s volunteers act as an essential accompaniment to the progress learners are making in the classroom, and help to accelerate and consolidate that progress. 

By harnessing the value of community and volunteering, ALT are able to supplement the foundational learning taking place in overcrowded classes, providing adult learners with the tailored support they need to succeed.

It is estimated that more than 8 million adults in the UK (1 in 6) are ‘functionally illiterate’, lacking basic skills beyond a primary school level, or below. The lack of reading skills can have devastating impacts on a person’s life, and is a key contributor to an intergenerational cycle of poverty. 

The Adult Literacy Trust (ALT) believes that literacy is a right, not a privilege, and wants every adult to have the chance to gain this critical skill. The charity was set up to ensure that individuals who wish to improve their literacy skills receive the help they need to become successful readers, and to increase their life chances. 

Robert Glick, Chair, Adult Literacy Trust, said:

“Our charity was founded on the belief that literacy is a right, not a privilege, and we are working to ensure that lifelong learning opportunities are accessible to all, one individual at a time. We rely entirely on the generosity of organisations such as London Freemasons to allow this to happen, and are incredibly grateful for their support. Together, we are convinced we can make a huge difference to the life chances of so many.” 

Paul King, London Freemasons said:

“Literacy is something that most of us take for granted and to be able to support ALT in their mission to support and improve literacy within our community is something that we are proud to be able to support”.

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The funds will help the Royal British Legion support serving personnel, veterans and their families facing challenges such as financial hardship, housing difficulties and social isolation – issues that many veterans experience long after leaving military service.

The fundraising campaign also highlights the shared values that unite the two organisations. Both Freemasonry and the Royal British Legion are built around the principle of service: service to the nation, service to communities, and service to those in need.

Freemasonry has a long tradition of charitable work and civic engagement, while the Royal British Legion was founded after the First World War to provide lifelong support to members of the Armed Forces community and to ensure the nation remembers their service and sacrifice.

This initiative began in late 2025 when the London Freemasons’ Charity committed £50,000 in match funding to encourage greater giving across the capital. Lodges and Chapters responded quickly, raising £90,000 through a coordinated appeal – bringing the total to £140,000 in just three months.

The scale and speed of the response demonstrated how community organisations across London can mobilise quickly when united behind a shared cause.

Lynda Atkins, National Chair of the Royal British Legion, welcomed the support: 

“On behalf of the Royal British Legion, I would like to thank the Freemasons across London for your generosity and steadfast support in marking this year’s Remembrance. Your commitment speaks to the deep sense of unity and shared responsibility that binds us together. Standing in common cause, you are helping to ensure that Remembrance is honoured not only in words, but through lasting and meaningful support for the Armed Forces community.

As Chair of the Royal British Legion, and knowing first-hand the values of the Freemasons through my own family, I am personally delighted to see our organisations working so closely together in a spirit of shared purpose and mutual respect. Thank you once again.”

John Thompson, Assistant Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England, said the campaign showed how shared values can translate into meaningful impact:

“I want to express my heartfelt thanks for your unwavering commitment and generosity. The support of Metropolitan members not only strengthens our work with the Armed Forces community but also demonstrates the very best of our values and our engagement within the wider community.

The way we have come together shows what can be achieved when we act with purpose and compassion. It is a model of excellence, and one that I believe could be replicated across our organisation as we look ahead to 2026 and beyond.”

Following the success of the campaign, London Freemasons intend to establish the initiative as an ongoing annual appeal, ensuring continued support for the Royal British Legion and the Armed Forces community.

The appeal will remain open throughout 2026, with all funds raised continuing to support the Royal British Legion’s work helping veterans and their families rebuild their lives after service.

The donation once again demonstrates the historic and unique relationship between Freemasonry and the Armed Forces, marked last year by the award of Gold Defence Employer Recognition Award to the United Grand Lodge of England, as well as the release of a short video on Freemasonry and the Armed Forces:  https://youtu.be/NFHDmhYMkKs?si=BTfVBAl2mtIUbUHk

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The Fit For Future project, supported by this grant, aims to intensively work with between 20 to 30 young people in London post release, specifically enabling them to make transformative changes to their lives. The primary benefit is to improve their chances of successfully settling back into the community after release from custody and breaking the cycle of reoffending. The project helps participants continue to develop thinking and skills that reduce offending behaviour, supporting their transition into a stable future and sustainable employment. Expected outcomes for participants include regularly engaging with a mentor, 90% increasing their agency and self-efficacy, and 90% improving their resilience. 

3Pillars Project delivers a pioneering programme within the Criminal Justice System, through their headline intervention GAMEPLAN. They are dedicated to supporting men in custody and post-release through a sports-based mentoring programme. The charity’s core purpose is to work with young people in Young Offenders Institutions (YOIs) and prisons by integrating physical activity – particularly rugby, mentoring, personal development, qualifications, and work experience into their programmes, where self-respect, resilience, and integrity are key. 

Critically, they are expected to improve key stability factors such as housing, finance, health, and engagement, and 80% are projected to secure a job or work placement within 12 months post-release. This grant is vital as it will allow 3Pillars Project to expand its existing service to better meet the needs of young people being released to London, providing intensive, flexible, and coordinated local support that is often absent from statutory provision.

Mike Crofts, the CEO of 3Pillars Project, emphasised the critical role of this funding, stating: "This Funding will make a significant difference to our work, enabling us to extend support to our beneficiaries in London when they are released from custody.”

Will Clayton, London Freemasons said: “The work 3Pillars are doing through the GAMEPLAN project is important in supporting those that are released from custody at the earliest possible opportunity”.

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The grant will enable group members to take part in a range of creative wellbeing activities, from arts and crafts, poetry, music and mindfulness, to cultural reminiscence where they share stories about their journeys and experiences since arriving in Britain as part of the post-war Windrush Generation.

One of the things participants enjoy most about our Brixton House Good Neighbours sessions is meeting new friends, social activities, learning new skills, and cultural experiences, they’ve told us "It feels good to interact and talk to people" and that taking part “made leaving the house worthwhile”.

Many of the members are managing long term health conditions including high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, arthritis, kidney disease, poor mobility, and dementia. The grant from London Freemasons means we can help them to learn breathing exercises, joint movement, balance, stretching, and how to relax. They particularly value the tai chi, movement and therapeutic massage activities which participants have told us "loosens old bones and muscles" and “helps with aches and pain.”

Delia Barker CEO at Brixton House said:

“Taking part in creative wellbeing activities and having regular opportunities to meet in the warm and welcoming environment of Brixton House is a huge source of comfort for group members. We know it is important in members maintaining relationships, participating in meaningful activities, and preserving their overall independence. Thank you so much for your support – its impact will go a long way!”. Delia Barker CEO at Brixton House

Will Clayton, London Freemasons said:

“This is a fantastic example of projects that truly support the local community and we are very pleased to be able to support the Brixton House Good Neighbours Project.”

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The grant will also fund two full day and one half day therapeutic cruises for London-based individuals who may have difficulty accessing the Thames due to physical and mental health challenges and other adverse circumstances.

Using two fully wheelchair-accessible community boats the charity delivers educational programmes for children and young people across London and the South East, and therapeutic cruises for people of all ages who have limited access to the Thames due to health issues, disabilities, isolation or social exclusion.

The work carried out by the charity improves wellbeing, encourages learning, and brings people together through two main programmes: Education and Therapeutic Cruise.

Too many children grow up without meaningful access to nature. Research shows:

• 85% of young people say being in nature makes them feel happy (Natural England, 2021).
• 76% of children want to spend more time outdoors, yet 63% of parents take them only once a week or less, citing accessibility as the biggest barrier (National Trust & First News, 2024).
• 92% of people agree nature supports mental health, yet 22% can't access it due to poor health (Natural England).

The generous grant from London Freemasons will address these needs directly, directly benefitting 141 individuals, offering inclusive access to meaningful outdoor experiences that inspire learning, reduce loneliness, and promote equality.

Dennis van Wonderen, Chair of Trustees said: “This generous grant from LFC will support even more Londoners in accessing the River Thames, one of this country’s most iconic natural landmarks. Your contribution will give inclusive, meaningful outdoor experiences to all Londoners that inspire learning, reduce loneliness, and promote equality.”

Paul King, London Freemasons said: “The River Thames is a key feature of London and to see it being used to support the community in the way that Thames Boat Project are doing is something that brings benefit to all communities in London. We are pleased to be able to support this project.”

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Tower Hamlets currently faces significant challenges, with the End Child Poverty Campaign highlighting it as having London's highest rate of child poverty at 47.5 per cent. Local schools have identified a critical need for interventions addressing behavioural issues, physical health, social skills, communication challenges, and general school readiness among young children.

Creative Play addresses these challenges directly, offering a 10-week series of workshops to support children with their active play delivered in collaboration with children's centres and nurseries. Sessions use imaginative play to encourage communication, socialisation, and developmental milestones through activities easily replicated at home. An example includes an imaginative journey through a magical forest, meeting animals, climbing spider webs, discovering magic castles, and dancing with butterflies.

The sessions are delivered by experienced facilitators and an Access Worker, supported by Half Moon's Creative Learning team, ensuring personalised attention and appropriate referrals to Early Help hubs for families needing further support.

Previous Half Moon projects using similar methodologies show promising results: 70 per cent of participating children demonstrated significant improvementin social engagement, and by the end of the programme, 100 per cent of families reported increased social interaction, substantially reducing isolation.

For Creative Play, Half Moon aim to see improved social, emotional, and behavioural development in at least 65 per cent of participants, enhanced family connections, and reductions in social isolation.

The grant from London Freemasons comes through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, funded by Freemasons, their families and their friends from across England, Wales and the Channel Islands.

Androulla Constantinou, Head of Creative Learning at Half Moon, said, 

“We’re incredibly grateful to London Freemasons for this support. Creative Play is more than just drama and movement; it’s a lifeline for families facing significant barriers. This programme helps ensure that all children, regardless of background, have the chance to thrive.”

Paul King from London Freemasons said:

“I’m very pleased we’ve been able to support Half Moon and the essential work they do; their Creative Play programme aligns with our mission to make a positive impact on disadvantaged children. We believe that our funding will help provide critical resources and support, fostering better health and development outcomes for these families.”

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The £59,000 grant will fund Little Seedlings, a special programme of year-round sessions for children under five years together with their parents and carers.

Islington is one of the UK’s most nature-deprived boroughs, where 71 per cent of residents lack access to a private garden. Across the UK, children are increasingly disconnected from nature, with research showing that 50 per cent of children cannot identify stinging nettles, 24 per cent do not recognise a conker and 83 per cent do not know what a bumblebee looks like.

An estimated 38 per cent of Islington children live in poverty and free-to-attend regular activities which benefit physical, emotional, cognitive and social skills are much needed. Children and adults alike will enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of being outside, connecting with each other and the natural world around them. Sessions will also build social networks and friendships, so crucial for new parents and carers at risk of loneliness and isolation.

Each week at Little Seedings, child-led play and sensory activities such as mud kitchens are combined with ‘greening activity’ designed to increase biodiversity and improve the greenspace, such as planting, making seedballs, building log piles and even improving ponds. There are also regular activities linking food growing and healthy eating to develop an understanding of nature's journey from field to fork. Each week, heathy snacks, stories and songs build community and a sense of belonging.

Amy Haworth, The Garden Classroom’s Director of Community Programmes, said: “We’re very grateful to London Freemasons for their generous grant which allows us to introduce hundreds of local children to the natural world. Little Seedlings will give Islington children the chance to explore the natural world in a way that’s often impossible for those who live in this highly urbanised environment.”

Paul King from London Freemasons, said: “I’m really pleased we’ve been able to help The Garden Classroom with their hugely important programme that gives Islington children the same experience of nature that kids from more rural parts of the country enjoy as a matter of course. Access to green spaces is vitally important for every child.”

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The £60,000 grant will support HF Mencap’s Youth Development Project (YDP), which offers after-school clubs, holiday programmes, and community outings designed to improve confidence, social skills, and mental wellbeing for young people with additional needs. The project will run until June 2027, delivering over 350 sessions, including drama, art, dance, gardening, wellbeing days, and cultural visits.

This funding from London Freemasons forms part of a wider financial plan to ensure the sustainability and expansion of the project. Match funding from the Julia and Hans Rausing Trust is supporting core staffing costs and weekend development, while equipment funding from the Bailey Thomas Charitable Fund, Clothworkers and the Percy Bilton Charity has enabled the purchase of new materials and resources, ensuring inclusive access and high-quality provision for all participants.

The grant specifically helps sustain and grow the project by covering the salary of an experienced Youth Development Coordinator and contributing to associated delivery costs such as travel and venue hire. HF Mencap works with young people who face multiple challenges—including social isolation, anxiety, and low self-esteem—providing opportunities for self-expression, confidence-building, and community connection.

The programme also supports families, offering signposting to resources such as CAMHS, youth councils, and SEND schools and colleges. It works closely with local organisations and venues including the Sands End Arts & Community Centre, Turtle Key Arts, and Kew Gardens.

HF Mencap’s Youth Development Programme has already made a measurable difference, with past participants reporting improved mental health, increased independence, and stronger social networks. One mother shared how her son, previously too anxious to leave the house, now attends weekly sessions with confidence and joy thanks to the team’s compassionate support.

The grant from London Freemasons comes through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, which is funded by Freemasons, their families, and friends from across England and Wales.

Rebecca Rawcliffe, HR and Business Development Manager at HF Mencap, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to London Freemasons for this generous grant. It plays a vital role in helping us continue our work supporting young people with learning disabilities to build confidence and find joy. We’re also thankful for the generous match funding from the Julia and Hans Rausing Trust, and the support from the Bailey Thomas, Clothworkers and Percy Bilton Charities, who are helping us enhance the experience through essential equipment and accessible resources.”

Paul King, from London Freemasons, said: “I’m proud the Freemasons are supporting such a vital project. HF Mencap’s Youth Development Programme offers young people with learning disabilities the chance to thrive and feel included. It’s a wonderful example of the kind of community support we’re keen to champion.”

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Every year, more than 200 children and young people under 18 in the UK sustain a spinal cord injury. Whether through a sudden accident, illness, or medical condition, the impact is profound, affecting every aspect of daily life. Spinal cord injury can lead to long-term challenges including loss of mobility, chronic pain, breathing issues, and poorer mental health and wellbeing. The journey through rehabilitation, education, and young adulthood can be isolating, confusing and often exclusionary without the right support.

This three-year grant will enable Back Up to grow its specialist Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) service, reaching more children, young people and their families at every stage of their journey, including through education. The service empowers young people from early years to 25 to live fulfilling lives.

The funding will support personalised and holistic information advice and guidance for children and young people with spinal cord injury, including through tailored support plans. It will deliver specialist education inclusion support, including advice for families and professionals, support with education, health and care plans, direct advocacy in schools, and wellbeing support. Live assemblies and peer-led talks will be provided by Back Up’s trained Education Advocate volunteers. Toolkits and resources for education professionals will also be available, supporting long-term inclusion and accessibility in learning environments.

Over the three years of the project, around 500 children, young people and family members will benefit directly from the service — with many more reached through networks, schools and awareness-building initiatives.

The grant from London Freemasons comes through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, which is funded by Freemasons, their families and friends, from across England and Wales.

Sophie Elwes, Head of Services at Back Up said:

“We’re very grateful to London Freemasons for their generous grant which will make a meaningful difference to hundreds of families navigating the life-altering impact of spinal cord injury. Our goal is for every child and young person with a spinal cord injury to feel supported, understood, and empowered to lead the life they want to live. Thanks to the Freemasons this will be possible for more children and young people.”

Paul King from London Freemasons, said:

“I’m really pleased we’ve been able to help Back Up with their hugely important programme for children who have sustained a spinal cord injury. The advice and guidance they provide gives these young people the best possible chance to lead fulfilling lives.”

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