The scope of the work needing support within the community is such that guidelines for giving are necessary. The main areas of concern normally considered to be outside the Foundation's guidelines are:
- Organisations which are not recognised as a charity by the Inland Revenue
- Individuals, including students
- Animal welfare
- Environmental projects including projects which deal with geographic and scenic issues. However the Trustees may consider projects which improve the living conditions of disadvantaged individuals and groups
- Activities which are normally the responsibility of central or local government or some other responsible body
- Schools, universities and colleges. (except for projects specifically to benefit disabled people)
- Hospitals and Medical Centres
- Sponsorship or marketing appeals
- Fabric appeals for places of worship
- Promotion of religion
- Activities which collect funds for subsequent redistribution to others
- Endowment funds
- Fundraising events or activities
- Corporate affiliation or membership of a charity
- Loans or business finance
- Expeditions or overseas travel (except for projects specifically benefiting disadvantaged young people from Northern Ireland)
- Construction of and extension to buildings
- Salaries for Pre-school or Playgroups.