About Us
About Us
The Holly House Charitable Foundation is a charitable trust supporting small, local charities that provide practical help to children and young people facing disadvantage, disability or additional challenges in their lives. The focus is on work where funding can make a clear, immediate difference. We work with charities that understand their communities well and are responding to real need, helping them continue that work through funding, connections and practical support.
The Holly House Charitable Foundation is a charitable trust supporting small, local charities that provide practical help to children and young people facing disadvantage, disability or additional challenges in their lives. The focus is on work where funding can make a clear, immediate difference. We work with charities that understand their communities well and are responding to real need, helping them continue that work through funding, connections and practical support.
“It’s often the practical things that make the biggest difference. With the right support at the right time, the direction of a young person’s life can change.”
Our Mission
To support small, local charities so they can continue providing practical help to children and young people who need it most.
Our Vision
A community where children and young people have access to the support they need, regardless of background or circumstances.
Our Trustees
Nicki Ford-Wilkinson - Foundation Lead
Nicki leads the day-to-day management of The Holly House Charitable Foundation, working closely with the trustees to help ensure funding is directed where it can make the greatest difference. She plays a central role in overseeing the funding process, from initial enquiries through to recommendations, while also supporting relationships with corporate partners and the charities we work with.
Sophie Ford-Wilkinson - Lead Trustee
Sophie began her career as a primary school teacher, spending ten years in the classroom and developing a strong understanding of safeguarding and the needs of children. She later moved into safeguarding technology within a family-founded software business that has grown into a global organisation supporting millions of children worldwide. As Lead Trustee, Sophie brings frontline experience and strategic oversight, helping to guide the Foundation’s direction and decision-making.
Steve Wilkinson - Trustee
Steve has many years’ experience building and leading software organisations, including one that has grown into a global business. As a trustee, he provides oversight on governance, risk and long-term planning, helping ensure the Foundation is managed responsibly and effectively. Steve passionately believes that all young people should have access to the resources and opportunities they need, regardless of background, challenges or circumstance.
Susie Wilkinson - Trustee
Susie has a background in education, including roles in some of the most challenging schools in the local area. She now supports a range of charitable causes through volunteering, with a focus on children, families and community wellbeing. As a trustee, she brings a grounded perspective to funding discussions, with a strong focus on practical support that makes a difference locally.
Adam Wilkinson - Trustee
Adam played a key role in developing safeguarding software that is now used globally. He now leads Meritec Ltd, where he oversees the growth of the technology business and brings a strong focus on strategy and sustainability. As a trustee, he contributes technical and strategic insight, supporting clear decision-making and long-term direction.