We are committed to working in partnership with the Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector to support thriving, inclusive and resilient communities. Our grant funding programmes provide opportunities for local organisations to deliver projects and activities that benefit residents and contribute to the council’s strategic priorities.

About our funding

Our grants are designed to empower VCFSE organisations to play a leading role in delivering services, activities and community-led initiatives. Funding is typically awarded to projects that:

• support local communities and improve quality of life
• promote inclusion, equality and community cohesion
• address local needs and priorities
• encourage participation and resident involvement
• deliver measurable social impact

Funding opportunities may vary in size, focus and timescale depending on the programme, but all aim to maximise benefit for residents and ensure value for money.

Who can apply

We welcome applications from a wide range of VCFSE organisations, including:

• registered charities
• community and voluntary groups
• faith-based organisations
• social enterprises and community interest companies
• cooperative organisations

Applicants must usually:

• operate on a not-for-profit basis
• deliver activities that benefit local residents
• have appropriate governance and financial arrangements in place

In some cases, groups may apply in partnership with an eligible organisation.

What we fund

We fund a diverse range of community-led projects and activities. These can include (but are not limited to):

• community events, celebrations and cultural activities
• workshops, training and education programmes
• awareness-raising campaigns and community engagement
• health, wellbeing and social inclusion initiatives
• activities or services supporting underrepresented or disadvantaged groups

All funded projects must clearly demonstrate how they meet the aims of the funding programme and contribute to community outcomes.

What we don’t fund

While criteria differ between programmes, funding is generally not available for:

• activities that do not benefit local residents
• projects that do not align with the council’s priorities
• ongoing organisational running costs (unless specified)
• activities delivered outside the local area
• profit-making or commercial ventures

Full eligibility criteria are provided for each funding round.

How to apply

Applications are typically submitted through an online form. Applicants may be asked to provide supporting documents such as:

• governing documents (e.g. constitution)
• financial information or bank details
• relevant policies (e.g. safeguarding, equality and diversity)
• evidence of insurance (where required)
• risk assessments

Clear guidance and deadlines are provided for each funding opportunity.

How applications are assessed

Applications are reviewed through a fair and transparent process. This usually includes:

1. Eligibility and compliance checks
2. Assessment by a panel or Council officers

Projects are assessed against criteria such as:

• feasibility and deliverability
• community impact and outcomes
• alignment with council priorities
• value for money
• contribution to equality, diversity and inclusion

Funding decisions are made based on the strength of applications and available budget.

If you are successful

Successful applicants will receive a funding agreement or offer letter outlining:

• funding conditions
• reporting requirements
• project delivery expectations

You may be required to provide additional documentation before funding is released.                                                                                               

Monitoring and evaluation

We ask funded organisations to demonstrate how the funding has been used and what has been achieved. This typically includes:

• completing an end-of-project report
• providing evidence of spend (e.g. receipts)
• sharing outcomes, learning and impact
• regular reporting of activity providing outputs and outcomes (for longer-term projects).

This helps ensure accountability and supports future funding decisions.

If your application is unsuccessful

If your application is not successful, you will receive feedback where possible. 

There is no appeals process but you may make a formal complaint if you think you have been treated unfairly. You can do this by contacting email complaints@lbbd.gov.uk 

We always encourage organisations to apply again for future funding.