Barking and Dagenham council is inviting local charities and community groups to apply for funding to deliver events that celebrate and promote the borough’s rich diversity.
The Equality and Diversity Community Fund is now open for its latest round of applications. The fund supports organisations to deliver inclusive projects and events linked to the borough’s Equality and Diversity Calendar, helping bring residents together, strengthen community connections and celebrate the borough’s vibrant and diverse communities.
Applications are welcomed for activities marking any Equality, Diversity and Inclusion observance, with particular encouragement for events linked to upcoming dates including:
National Inclusion Week (September), Black History Month (October), Baby Loss Awareness Week (October), World Menopause Day (October), Islamophobia Awareness Month (November), Diwali (November), Interfaith Week (November), Transgender Awareness Week (November), Transgender Day of Remembrance (November), White Ribbon Day / 16 Days of Activism Against Gender‑Based Violence (November), International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December), Hanukkah (December) and Christmas (December).
Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community, Business & Engagement, said: “Barking and Dagenham thrives because of the people who live here and the many cultures and identities they represent. This fund is a chance for community groups to create events that spark connection, celebrate difference and bring residents together. We’re excited to see the ideas that come forward and encourage groups of all sizes to apply.”
Local groups are encouraged to complete the application form below. Alternatively, if groups would like a MS Word version of the application form, please contact the team at CE‑strategy@lbbd.gov.uk for a copy of the latest version to ensure that your application can be accepted.
Applications will close on Monday 22 June 2026 (23:59).
Further information about the fund and how to apply is available here.