Sunderland Guild of Help is based in the city of Sunderland and historically the Mayor of Sunderland has assumed the honorary role of President, whilst the Vice President position is held by a local businessman, who is a Deputy Lieutenant of the county. The main work of the Charity centres on its premises in Toward Road, Sunderland, from which the objects of the Charity are carried out. Sunderland Guild of Help is still predominantly occupied with meeting the needs of those adversely affected by poverty or illness, referral usually coming from professionals employed by the statutory agencies operating in those areas. To ensure that funds are directed where most needed and to confirm the integrity of all applications, the administration of the Charity is undertaken by part time staff, who direct referrals to the Chairman of Trustees for decision. In cases where referrals are ambiguous, or require further investigation, a Welfare Subcommittee of senior trustees meets when required to consider such applications. The charity is able to provide grants in excess of 90% of all applications received. The Trust Deed defines the objectives of the Charity thus: "To assist such of the citizens and inhabitants of the area as are in distress or difficulty through poverty. To promote any charitable purpose for the benefit of the community in the area and in particular for the advancement of education, for the furtherance of health and relief of poverty, distress and sickness."