Deadline: 28-May-2026
The We Love The Moorlands Fund provides small grants between £100 and £1,000 to support community-led projects in the Staffordshire Moorlands. It funds initiatives that improve local services, strengthen community connections, and enhance quality of life. Open to charities, community groups, and social enterprises, the fund runs two main funding rounds each year.
What is the We Love The Moorlands Fund?
The We Love The Moorlands Fund is a place-based community grant programme established in 2009 to support grassroots initiatives across the Staffordshire Moorlands.
A place-based fund focuses on improving a specific geographic area by investing in local people, services, and community-driven projects.
The fund aims to:
- Improve quality of life for residents
- Support essential and additional services
- Encourage community participation and cohesion
Key Funding Priorities
The fund supports projects that deliver clear benefits to the local community.
Core Focus Areas
- Providing services for local residents
- Improving wellbeing and quality of life
- Supporting facilities not otherwise available
- Encouraging fun, inclusive community activities
Types of Supported Projects
- Community events and engagement activities
- Local service delivery initiatives
- Projects that reduce isolation
- New ideas that fill service gaps
Grant Amount and Funding Structure
- Grant Size: £100 to £1,000
- Funding Type: Small grants for community projects
- Application Timing: Open year-round
Funding Rounds
- March Round
- September Round
Applications can be submitted anytime, but decisions are made during these two cycles.
Who is Eligible?
The fund supports established community-focused organisations.
Eligible Applicants
- Constituted community and voluntary groups
- Registered charities
- Social enterprises
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be based in or benefit the Staffordshire Moorlands
- Must have been established for at least 12 months
- Must demonstrate community benefit
What Can the Funding Be Used For?
Eligible costs include:
- Core operational costs
- Equipment and materials
- Capital expenses
- Training and capacity building
- One-off events
- Project delivery costs
What is Not Funded?
The fund does not support:
- Political campaigning
- Statutory services
- Retrospective funding (projects already completed)
- Projects promoting religion (except inclusive community services by faith groups)
Why This Fund Matters
Strengthens Local Communities
Supports grassroots initiatives that directly impact residents.
Fills Service Gaps
Funds projects that provide services not otherwise available.
Encourages Community Engagement
Promotes social interaction and inclusive activities.
Supports Small but Impactful Ideas
Enables low-cost projects with high local value.
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Confirm Eligibility
Ensure your organisation meets the criteria and has been active for at least 12 months - Define Your Project
Clearly outline how your project will benefit the local community - Prepare Supporting Information
Include details on budget, activities, and expected outcomes - Submit Your Application
Apply at any time during the year - Wait for Funding Round Review
Applications are assessed in March or September - Receive Decision and Funding
Successful applicants receive grants after approval
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying as an unregistered or newly formed group
- Submitting unclear or vague project proposals
- Requesting funding for ineligible activities
- Missing key details such as budget or outcomes
- Applying for retrospective funding
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly demonstrate community impact
- Show how your project fills a local need
- Keep your budget realistic and transparent
- Highlight community involvement and participation
- Focus on achievable and measurable outcomes
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Who can apply for the We Love The Moorlands Fund?
Community groups, charities, and social enterprises operating in Staffordshire Moorlands.
2. How much funding can I receive?
Grants range from £100 to £1,000.
3. When can I apply?
Applications are accepted year-round, with decisions made in March and September.
4. Can new organisations apply?
No, organisations must be established for at least 12 months.
5. What types of projects are supported?
Projects that improve local services, wellbeing, and community engagement.
6. Can funding be used for events?
Yes, one-off community events are eligible.
7. Are religious organisations eligible?
Yes, but only for inclusive community services, not for promoting religion.
Conclusion
The We Love The Moorlands Fund is a valuable small grants programme that empowers local organisations to improve life in the Staffordshire Moorlands. By supporting practical, community-led initiatives, it strengthens social connections, enhances services, and promotes wellbeing.
For more information, visit The Community Foundation for Staffordshire.