London Catalyst was established when the Lord Mayor of London invited religious and hospital leaders to respond to the health impact of poor housing and sanitation on the poor in London. The decision was made to have an annual collection in places of worship throughout Greater London to improve the health of Londoners. It was originally called the ‘Metropolitan Hospital Sunday Fund’
1873
The average time given to a patient at the Farringdon Dispensary was only 100 seconds!
1874
Queen Victoria became the Patron of the Fund gifting 100 guineas, a royal patronage that continued until the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
1906
An eminent philanthropist, George Herring dies and leaves London Catalyst £750,000 (around £20 million today) which still enables our grant giving today.
1920
Donations peaked, this year, from schools, places of worship and other donors at £53,000
1948
The creation of the welfare state and the National Health Service. Britain was the first western country to offer free care for all citizens, from cradle to grave.
2002
The Metropolitan Hospital Sunday Fund was renamed London Catalyst
2023
London Catalyst celebrates 150th birthday!
Today
We continue to serve the residents of London today through the alleviation of ill health and poverty.
Total funds awarded in last 5 years to 763 organisations
