Since 2009, The Betty Riseley Trust has proudly supported a variety of local projects that have made a real impact on the lives of children and young people across Surrey. From creating safe and vibrant spaces for play to providing essential resources for schools and community groups, each project we’ve funded has helped build stronger communities and brighter futures. Here, we celebrate some of the incredible initiatives that have benefitted from our support, showcasing the difference they’ve made thanks to the generosity of the Trust.
Success Stories
The Betty Riseley Trust is delighted to have been able continue its history of supporting the Snoxall Play Area in Cranleigh. A grant last year enabled the Parish Council to replace the sand pit, which would otherwise have had to be removed for safety reasons, with new equipment. The new installation, which has been designed to include wheelchair access, allows young children to develop many skills through play and is already proving to be a great success with local families.
The Betty Riseley Trust is proud to have supported the Pied Piper Theatre Company with a grant for their production of Can Bears Ski?. This heartwarming retelling, based on the book by poet Raymond Antrobus and illustrated by Polly Dunbar, brings to life the story of Little Bear, a young cub who navigates the challenges of being deaf in a hearing world. Through puppetry, music, and a beautifully designed set inspired by Dunbar’s illustrations, the play explores the many ways we communicate love and understanding.
In partnership with Deafinitely Theatre, the production highlights the experience of a deaf child, showing the importance of connection and the power of non-verbal communication. With the Trust’s support, Can Bears Ski? is able to reach local schools and audiences, helping to raise awareness of the deaf community and celebrate the diverse ways we can express ourselves.
The Betty Riseley Trust is pleased to have supported the GASP Motor Project, a vital initiative in Surrey that provides young people with accredited courses in basic motor mechanics and practical engineering skills. GASP offers a non-judgmental, supportive environment where students can gain hands-on experience, develop new skills, and build confidence. By delivering practical learning within a structured and disciplined framework, GASP not only equips students with valuable technical abilities but also fosters personal growth and positive development.
With the help of the Trust’s grant, GASP has been able to expand its reach across Surrey, delivering courses both at its state-of-the-art workshop in Albury and through its mobile unit. This flexibility allows GASP to bring its expert training to schools and youth organisations, ensuring that more young people have access to these opportunities, regardless of their location. By supporting GASP, the Trust is helping to empower young people with skills that can open doors to future careers and inspire a lifelong interest in engineering and mechanics.
The Betty Riseley Trust is proud to have supported Pond Meadow School with a grant for the complete refurbishment of their outdated Food Technology Room.
As an outstanding special school in Guildford, Pond Meadow Academy Trust is dedicated to providing Surrey children with severe and complex learning disabilities the best possible education and preparation for life beyond school.
The newly refurbished Food Technology Room is an essential part of this mission, offering a safe and modern environment where pupils can learn important life skills and gain confidence in the kitchen.
The updated facility will enable pupils, many of whom have a range of profound and multiple learning disabilities, including complex medical needs and ASD, to engage in practical, hands-on learning. With the new space, staff can continue to deliver high-quality, tailored lessons that help students develop independence and prepare them for life after school.
The Trust is delighted to contribute to this vital project, supporting Pond Meadow School in its commitment to providing a well-rounded, enriching education for every pupil.