Metfield residents benefit from two Registered Charitable Funds administered by six volunteer Trustees under a Charity Commission Order of 1917. They originate from gifts by local benefactors in the 16th century to support the poor people of the parish, who most likely would have been engaged in low-paid labouring work.

One fund owns the Christmas Lane allotments and some agricultural lands which are managed and leased by the Trustees. They also contribute financially when help is needed by parishioners in cases of sickness, long-term illness or hospitalisation, as well as with travelling costs to hospitals and the supply of fuel, clothing and other necessities.

The other fund is an Educational Foundation providing grants to university students, apprentices and people in further education. Contributions are also made for school outings and residential courses for Metfield children at local schools.

The Trustees welcome enquiries from anyone seeking an allotment, needing some financial help, an educational grant or even having thoughts of becoming a Trustee.

All enquiries are received in strict confidence in the first instance by the Clerk at metfieldunitedcharities@gmail.com.