ABOUT US
Our History
1881
Rev. Edward Forbes
The charity, originally called the Clevedon Convalescent Fund, was founded in 1881 when Rev. Edward Forbes, vicar of Christchurch, Clevedon established a convalescent home in memory of his wife, who died earlier that year. Rev. Forbes desire was to share his experience of God’s love through service and practical care. Those suffering ill health and who could benefit from a period of convalescence, were able to come to the home, be given good care and enjoy the fresh clean air Clevedon had to offer.
1909
Passing the torch
The work of the charity continued after the death of the founder in 1909 and went on to involve the use of a number of properties in Clevedon where many, including those wounded in the war and NHS patients were able to benefit from the convalescence provided.
1990
Clevedon Forbes Fund
Following a reduction in the numbers coming, the homes were gradually closed and in 1990 the final remaining convalescent home was sold and the money raised was invested to enable a new fund to be established, which would then operate as a grant awarding body, while still preserving the founders original intentions. The name was changed to the Clevedon Forbes Fund in his memory and to reflect this change.
Today
Message of Love
Since that time, the charity has been able to help many individuals, couples or families enjoy short breaks within the UK as part of their recovery from illness, by awarding grants towards these. To continue the Christian aspect of the homes, a gospel is sent to each beneficiary, unless specifically requested otherwise, in the hope that each may learn more of the love of the Lord Jesus Christ and consider their response to His love.
Applications can only be accepted from professionals in the statutory or voluntary care sector, on behalf of those they support as part of their role. We cannot accept applications from beneficiaries themselves, nor from a friend or a family member.
Recipients' Comments
“We enjoyed our festive break....and are extremely thankful to the trust for the holiday. We were able to have fun, socialise and make friends with other families who have experienced similar distressing situations.”
- from two ladies who, with their children, were sheltering in a refuge for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. With our grants they were able to enjoy a Christmas break in complete safety, with coach travel, hotel accommodation, meals and entertainment provided
“I came home refreshed, less tired and back to my old self, who had long disappeared with my 'tabard and slippers' mentality.”
- from a lady who cares for her severely disabled husband
“Thank you for helping us to get away on a break for a week. We have been through a stressful time in the past year and so much needed a break from it all.”
- from a couple with two young children both of whom have had recent life threatening illnesses, leaving one child with a permanent disability
“My son and I recently enjoyed an amazing holiday which would never have been possible without the grant given to us by your good selves. My son kept saying that he could not believe his dream of going to Legoland had come true. We made some amazing memories, increased by being able to stay in the resort hotel itself, designed totally for children, even down to the Lego minifigure lift announcements. The holiday really has made a lasting impression on him and has improved his wellbeing. I am overwhelmed by the support given to us by strangers, that just saying “Thank You” seems very inadequate”
- from a father who enjoyed taking his son to Legoland to help convalesce from the very difficult times they had both gone through