For over 40 years TENOVUS SCOTLAND has supported innovative medical research projects across the full spectrum of medical sciences, within Scottish Universities and Teaching Hospitals. Through the help of private donations, Trusts, legacies and fundraising events, our principal aim is to assist young research staff, who have yet to establish a track record, with small grants to get their research programmes underway. What makes Tenovus Scotland unique is that these ‘Pilot projects’ often attract substantial grants subsequently from the Medical Research Council, Wellcome Trust, etc. This “pump-priming” function is a key aspect of our activities. Without the support of Tenovus Scotland at these crucial early stages, most of these projects would not have seen the light of day.
In 1967, Sir Charles Illingworth obtained permission from Tenovus, the Cancer Charity, to use the name ‘Tenovus’ in Scotland. He then gathered nine eminent Glasgow Citizens to support his aims - (making ten of us) to provide urgently needed equipment for medical research.
1980’s and Onwards
The emphasis has been to provide funding for young research staff and for innovative research projects carried out within Scottish Universities/Teaching Hospitals.
From 1967 - 2009
Over £10.5 million has been raised towards medical research of which £8.5 million has already been paid out in grants.
One of the unique achievements that Tenovus Scotland can boast, is that OVER 90% OF ALL FUNDS RAISED ARE ALLOCATED TO RESEARCH.
That means on average over 90p in the pound goes directly to research, the average over the last three out of four years was 93p. For current year 2008-09 the economic downturn has meant income has fallen to a point where we could not meet this target, but we continually strive to resume this aim.
Donors may, if they so wish, nominate a specific field of research and or geographic region. All projects are subject to approval by (a national) an independent National Scientific Advisory Committee. Regional Committees are based in Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Dundee and Glasgow, with District Committees in Glasgow and Paisley.