The James Pantyfedwen Foundation (Ymddiriedolaeth James Pantyfedwen)

The James Pantyfedwen Foundation is a UK registered charity dedicated to the advancement and support of religion, education, the arts, and agriculture, primarily benefiting the people of Wales. The Foundation operates under charity number 1069598 and has been active since 1 April 1998, succeeding two earlier trusts established by the late Sir David James. Its purpose is to create a lasting endowment to support Welsh society across multiple cultural and educational areas.

History and Background

The Foundation was established to continue the philanthropic vision of Sir David James, who aimed to provide sustainable support for Welsh communities, especially in preserving religious sites, promoting education, and encouraging cultural activities. The Foundation emphasizes projects and initiatives that align with Sir David James's vision, including fostering ecumenical relations among churches and supporting postgraduate education for Welsh students.

Objectives and Activities

The charity's objects are focused on the advancement, encouragement, and promotion of:

• Religion
• Education
• The Arts
• Agriculture
• Other charitable purposes for the benefit of Welsh persons, principally in Wales

The Foundation provides grants across several headings:

• Church Buildings: Renovation and development projects for churches and chapels throughout Wales, with a preference for those linked to mission, outreach, and ecumenical work. Priority is given to churches with a regular Sunday congregation and a membership of approximately fifty or more.
• Church Resources and Equipment
• Eisteddfodau: Support for Welsh cultural festivals
• Postgraduate Students: Grants for tuition fees toward Master’s or PhD studies, specifically for Welsh students or those with strong ties to Wales. Grants can amount up to £5,000 per student.
• Publications
• Christian Training Courses

The Foundation meets three times a year (March, July, November) to consider grant applications. Applications, particularly from religious organizations, must be submitted at least one month in advance of meetings.

Postgraduate Student Support

The Foundation provides grants aimed at postgraduate students from Wales who are pursuing Master’s or doctoral degrees. Eligibility criteria include having a permanent address in Wales and either being born in Wales, having a parent born in Wales, or having studied in Wales for at least seven years. Grants are intended to assist with tuition fees and can be awarded up to £5,000.

Financial Overview

For the financial year ending 31 March 2024, the Foundation reported total income of approximately £615,897, primarily from investments valued around £584,520. Total expenditure was £735,512, with the majority spent on charitable activities (£668,770) and some on fundraising activities (£66,740). The Foundation also recorded investment gains amounting to £134,340 in the period.

Governance and Operations

The Foundation operates throughout Wales and supports both individuals and organizations through grant-making. Its trustees oversee the awarding of grants in line with the founder’s intentions and the charity’s statutory objects.

The James Pantyfedwen Foundation continues to play a vital role in supporting Welsh religious institutions, culture, and education, maintaining the legacy of Sir David James and fostering the enrichment and development of Welsh communities.

Note: This summary is based on information available from the James Pantyfedwen Foundation's official resources and the UK Charity Commission.

[1] https://www.jamespantyfedwen.cymru [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/3952075 [3] https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/funding/scholarships/james-pantyfedwen-foundation-grants [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search/-/charity-details/3952075/what-who-how-where [5] https://www.jamespantyfedwen.cymru/churches.html