Community and voluntary organisations across Barking and Dagenham are being encouraged to apply for two new funding opportunities to help residents who are facing financial hardship. 

Funded through the government’s Crisis and Resilience Fund, the opportunities will help low-income households facing financial difficulties, while also investing in community-led projects that prevent problems from escalating and help residents become more financially secure. 

The Warm Spaces and Winter Activities Programme builds on the success of previous years, where community organisations can apply for grants of up to £15,000 to deliver Warm Spaces. These are places where residents can stay warm, connect with others and access support throughout the winter.  

The Crisis and Resilience Fund Community Grants Programme invites local groups and community organisations to apply for funding to support residents by helping to reduce the cost of essentials, improving income security and financial resilience, and increasing access to employment opportunities.  

Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader of Barking and Dagenham council, said: “We know that times are tough for many residents in the borough, and financial pressures can affect people in different ways. 
 
“This funding is about more than providing help when people reach crisis point. It is also about working with our brilliant local community organisations to prevent problems from getting worse and helping residents build greater financial resilience for the future. 
 
“By working together with our partners, we can make sure support is available locally, easy to access, and responds to what our communities need.” 

These funding opportunities form part of Barking and Dagenham council's wider commitment to tackling poverty, reducing inequality and working in partnership with local organisations to improve outcomes for residents. 

Applications for the Warm Spaces and Winter Activities Programme can be made online by Friday 16 October at https://www.oneboroughvoice.lbbd.gov.uk/winter-activities-fund-2026 

Applications for the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) Community Grants Programme can be made online by Friday 27 November at https://www.lbbd.gov.uk/crisis-and-resilience-fund-crf-community-grants-programme-2026