Deadline: 27-Oct-2025
The Somerset Community Foundation’s Stronger Communities Fund offers grants of up to £5,000 to community-led groups across Somerset, excluding BANES and North Somerset.
The fund is designed to strengthen connections among residents, support vital community spaces, and empower individuals to reach their full potential. By investing in local organisations, the programme seeks to build a stronger, fairer, and more inclusive Somerset where people can thrive together.
The fund supports three main types of community groups. First, it helps groups that build stronger relationships between people in their communities. This includes projects that bring neighbours together through local events or activities, initiatives that engage people who often feel left out of community life, and community transport solutions that improve access in rural areas. It also backs projects that promote collective decision-making and community-led organising to ensure everyone has a voice in shaping local life.
Second, the fund supports groups that run or improve important community spaces. These include village halls in areas without other community facilities, community centres that host multiple activities, and sports clubs catering to both children and adults. The programme also welcomes applications from community-run cafés, libraries, green spaces, and performing arts venues—spaces that bring people together and enhance community wellbeing.
Third, it funds groups that provide targeted services for individuals in need of extra help. Projects that improve access to counselling for young people, create peer-support groups for adults, or reduce isolation among older residents are all examples of initiatives that align with the fund’s priorities. The Foundation recognises that every community is unique and encourages groups to reach out if their project falls outside the examples listed but still delivers meaningful local benefit.
To apply, groups must meet the Foundation’s minimum standards. These include demonstrating strong governance and leadership, sound financial management, and clear safeguarding measures to protect participants. Eligible applicants include registered charities, community groups, and other non-profit organisations embedded within their local area.
Applications are open on a rolling basis, and decisions are typically made within 10 to 12 weeks. For community groups seeking to bring people together, enhance shared spaces, or provide targeted local support, the Stronger Communities Fund offers an excellent opportunity to create lasting positive change across Somerset.
For more information, visit SCF.
