In Memoriam James Oliver, 1951 - 2025

It is with deep sadness that the Trustees, Members and administrators of Trefoil House learned of the passing of James Oliver. James was a Trustee of Trefoil from May 2017 to June 2025 and contributed a great deal to the management and work of the charity. 

A banker by profession, James took a great interest in the management of Trefoil’s investment portfolio which provides the income to make awards to children and young people with additional support needs in Scotland. James regularly met with Trefoil’s investment managers to ensure the portfolio was able to meet the needs of beneficiaries. In 2024 James worked with the administrators and investment managers to propose a new arrangement which allows for a guaranteed income to be made available to the Trustees to streamline grantmaking processes.

At quarterly meetings of Trefoil’s Trustees, as well as the bi-annual Members’ meetings, James was always on hand to present and explain financial and market updates as they affected Trefoil.

James cared about the needs faced by children and young people with additional support needs as well as the organisations which support them. He read applications with interest and kept track of impact reports from beneficiaries.

James’ interest in beneficiaries was not restricted to the Board room. He made various visits to organisations funded by Trefoil, such as Ashton Secondary School, and enjoyed engaging with staff and volunteers to learn about how their work impacted children and young people. 

James was closely involved with Trefoil while undergoing treatment and stepped down from the Board of Trustees just a few weeks before his death. Members were delighted that he could attend the AGM in May to provide his ever-detailed update on the portfolio performance and proposal for adoption of the Annual Accounts.

Colleagues remember James’ contribution with fondness:

“[James] was a dedicated colleague whose commitment to us was carried on with great courage as his illness progressed. He was a good and charming man and we shall all miss him greatly.”

Dennis Trueland, Chair of Trefoil

“I had the privilege of serving on the Board of Trefoil for many years with James.  He was a diligent Treasurer who was deeply committed to our mission to help children and young people with additional support needs.  He brought his grace, good humour and sharp intellect to our work, and he will be missed.”

Jane Green, Chair of Trefoil 2018 -2023

“He was a sound and meticulous adviser on all matters financial to us all and a charming colleague. He will be much missed by present and former Trustees and all of us with a connection to Trefoil.”

Eddie Frizzell CB, President of Trefoil

Our thoughts are with James’ partner, children, family and friends.

James Oliver, 1951 - 2025