Tamworth Borough Council’s Councillor Grants Program – United kingdom

The Tamworth Borough Council Community Grants programme provides £30,000 annually to fund community projects that improve quality of life across Tamworth’s ten wards. Eligible voluntary groups, charities, not-for-profit organisations, and inclusive faith groups can apply through their local ward councillor. Up to £3,000 is available per ward for projects addressing cost-of-living pressures, inequality, social isolation, environmental protection, and access to arts, heritage, and sports.

What Is the Tamworth Borough Council Community Grants Scheme?

The Tamworth Borough Council Community Grants scheme is a local funding programme delivered by Tamworth Borough Council. It is designed to support grassroots initiatives that improve wellbeing, community cohesion, and equal access to opportunities across Tamworth.

The programme distributes £30,000 per year across ten wards, ensuring funding reaches neighbourhood-level priorities.

Funding Structure and Allocation

Total annual funding available: £30,000
Each ward councillor allocation: £1,000
Maximum available per ward: £3,000
Number of wards: 10

Funding is available in the following wards:

• Amington

• Belgrave

• Bolehall

• Castle

• Glascote

• Mercian

• Spital

• Stonydelph

• Trinity

• Wilnecote

Councillors support projects that benefit their ward and align with council objectives.

Funding Priorities

Projects must improve quality of life and address at least one of the following themes:

Cost-of-living support:

• Food provision initiatives

• Warm spaces

• Energy advice

• Financial hardship support

Tackling inequality:

• Programmes addressing root causes of disadvantage

• Inclusion initiatives

• Community empowerment projects

Reducing social isolation:

• Social clubs and support groups

• Community events

• Intergenerational activities

Environment and open spaces:

• Community gardening

• Environmental improvement projects

• Green space protection

• Biodiversity initiatives

Arts, heritage and sport participation:

• Community arts workshops

• Cultural heritage projects

• Inclusive sports programmes

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Voluntary and community groups

• Registered charities

• Not-for-profit organisations

• Faith groups delivering inclusive activities

Eligibility requirements:

• Must be properly constituted with a governing document

• Must demonstrate wide community benefit

• Must be inclusive and non-discriminatory

• Must have a bank account with at least two unrelated signatories

• Must provide a safeguarding policy if working with children or vulnerable adults

Faith groups must ensure activities are open to the wider community.

Who Is Not Eligible?

The following cannot apply:

• Individuals

• Private businesses

• Statutory organisations

• Organisations that distribute profits or assets to members

Schools and colleges are generally not eligible unless applying through a constituted Parents & Friends Association (PFA) or Parents & Teacher Association (PTA) that demonstrates wide community benefit.

How the Grant Process Works

Step 1: Develop your project idea
Ensure it aligns with funding priorities and delivers measurable community benefit within a specific ward.

Step 2: Contact your ward councillor
Present your proposal and explain how it supports residents in their ward.

Step 3: Prepare documentation
Include:

• Governing document

• Safeguarding policy (if required)

• Bank account details (two unrelated signatories)

• Project budget breakdown

• Evidence of community need

Step 4: Submit application
Follow official guidance provided by Tamworth Borough Council.

Step 5: Deliver and report
If funded, use the grant for approved purposes only and maintain financial records.

Why This Grant Matters

The Tamworth Borough Council Community Grants programme strengthens local communities by:

• Supporting vulnerable residents

• Reducing inequality

• Encouraging social connection

• Protecting green spaces

• Expanding access to arts and sport

Ward-level funding ensures local priorities are directly addressed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Failing to demonstrate clear community benefit

• Submitting incomplete documents

• Missing safeguarding requirements

• Having related bank signatories

• Proposing projects that benefit only a closed membership group

• Applying as an ineligible organisation

Strong applications clearly show impact, inclusion, and accountability.

FAQ

1. How much funding is available per ward?
   Up to £3,000 per ward.

2. Can individuals apply?
   No, individuals are not eligible.

3. Are private businesses eligible?
   No, private businesses cannot apply.

4. Can faith groups apply?
   Yes, if activities are inclusive and open to all.

5. Do we need a safeguarding policy?
   Yes, if working with children or vulnerable adults.

6. Can schools apply?
   Only through a constituted PFA or PTA demonstrating wider community benefit.

7. How is funding decided?
   Ward councillors allocate funding to projects that align with council priorities and benefit their ward.

Conclusion

The Tamworth Borough Council Community Grants scheme provides targeted funding to improve life across Tamworth’s ten wards. With £30,000 distributed annually and up to £3,000 available per ward, the programme supports grassroots initiatives tackling hardship, inequality, isolation, environmental issues, and access to culture and sport. Eligible organisations should engage their ward councillor and submit a clear, well-documented proposal to secure support.