The History of the Rowland Hill Fund

A simple mission: to financially support postal people in need

Our History

Founded in 1882 as a memorial to Sir Rowland Hill, the pioneer of postal reform and creator of the Penny Black stamp. Sir Rowland Hill created the stamp to connect people throughout the country through an affordable, accessible postal service. More than 140 years later, that same spirit of connection remains at the heart of the Fund's work, providing practical and financial support to postal people and their families when they need it most helping them stay connected to security, opportunity and one another.

Since its creation, the Fund has supported over 140 thousand of beneficiaries, awarding more than £20 million in financial assistance to postal people facing hardship.

How the Rowland Hill Fund makes a difference

  • James

    We could take some of James’s stress away by contributing to bills while he was recovering from a life-changing accident

  • Georgia

    They were able to purchase specialised car equipment to keep Georgia safe while travelling

  • Alan and Halle

    The fund contributed towards specialist medical bills for Halle who has severe and painful scoliosis.

  • Bella

    Bella’s family could make dramatic changes to their home to ensure Bella’s comfort and safety

  • Alex, Claire & Amelia

    The family were supported by the fund so they could purchase an electric wheelchair

  • Helen

    The fund contributed to mortgage payments while she underwent breast cancer treatment

Ways the Fund is supported

Payroll Giving

Payroll giving is a simple tax effective way to give to the RHF through your pay. Payroll Giving donations are taken from pay after National Insurance, but before tax.

Fundraising

There are so many ways you can support us. Either by taking on an individual challenge like the Brighton marathon or by organising an activity for you team. We can help you fundraise your way.

Donating

whether you make a one-off donation or give monthly, your support is invaluable to us. You can make a lasting impact by leaving us a legacy or donating in memory of someone special.

How we are governed

View our latest Report and Accounts on the Charity Commission website

The Trustees support the work of the Fund and provides leadership and strategic governance.

  • Shaun Davis (Chair)

  • Helen Bradshaw (Deputy Chair)

  • Louise Alexander

  • David Blake

  • Michael Clarke

  • Sarah Collins

  • Rob Fowler

  • Rodney Jagelman

  • Kate Martin

  • Ian McKnight

  • Richard Poole

  • Mel Tomlin