Founded in 1783, the Benevolent Society of St Patrick is one of Britain's oldest Irish charities. Established by peers, merchants and professionals, its purpose was simple: to relieve poverty among the Irish community in London, without regard to "religion, sect or party"—a principle that continues to guide the Society today.

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In 1820 the Society opened its own non-denominational schools in Lambeth, providing education for Irish children in the capital. The schools closed following the Education Act of 1921, which raised the school leaving age and changed the provision of education. The Society then returned its focus to its original charitable purpose: preventing and relieving poverty. More than two centuries after its foundation, that work remains as important as ever.

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Today the Society provides small hardship grants to people of Irish heritage—those with an Irish parent or grandparent—living in Greater London, broadly defined as within the M25. Importantly, those to whom we give grants have no other recourse to aid than the Society. Although modest, these grants can make a significant difference at moments of real need. They help with essential clothing and footwear, household equipment, emergency heating costs, funeral travel, identity documents such as passports, and support during periods of illness or convalescence.

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Applications are assessed in partnership with the London Irish Centre and the Southwark Irish Pensioners Project through their network of Trusted Assessors, ensuring support reaches those who need it most.

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The Society's governance has changed little since 1783. It continues to be led by a President and Grand Committee—the Society's trustees—whose historic titles reflect a long tradition of charitable service. Our work is funded through investment income, charitable trusts and the generosity of private donors.

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The Benevolent Society of St Patrick has served London's Irish community for more than 240 years. While the needs of those we help have changed over time, our purpose has not: to offer practical assistance, preserve dignity, and ensure that no one facing hardship is left without support.