The National Benevolent Institution was founded in 1812 by Peter Hervé, a miniature portrait painter, 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.

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. Annuities 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 generally 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, built in 1882 it was previously known as the Royal Windsor Tapestry Manufactory. This location 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 not a charity actively engaged in fundraising but a charity that relies on donations and legacies to ensure that we can continue our charitable work.