The National Benevolent Institution was founded in 1812 by Peter Hervé, a painter of miniature portraits, to assist "aged reduced members of the upper and middle classes". Today this philosophy is interpreted liberally and NBI seeks to help older people from all backgrounds by the provision of financial assistance and also accommodation. A Royal Charter was originally granted by Queen Victoria in 1859. This has been updated by Supplemental Royal Charters in 1948, 1997 and 2005.

Financial assistance is given in the form of a regular payment. Before applicants can receive a regular payment we establish that they are in financial need and are claiming all the benefits to which they are entitled. Applicants must also have either reached retirement age, or be over 50 and in receipt of disability living allowance. Regular Payments can sometimes be supplemented by one off grants. We support people who live in their own homes whether owner occupied or rented but we do not supply top-up fees for nursing homes.

The NBI has two main residential properties, one in Berkshire, the other in Gloucestershire. Both provide accommodation for people over 60 who can maintain independent living and both are supported by a house manager. The property in Berkshire is a large Victorian house called the Tapestries and consists of apartments for retired ladies with limited finance. The property in Gloucestershire is called Peter Hervé House. It was purpose built in 2002 to provide a new office for NBI as well as 9 apartments.

The NBI is constantly working to provide support and assistance to as many older people as it can. We are a non-fundraising charity that relies on donations and legacies to ensure that we can continue our work.