Deadline: 12-Jan-2026
The West Sussex County Council is accepting applications for its Suicide Prevention Community Grants Program, providing funding of up to £5,000 to community-based projects targeting adults at higher risk of suicide. The program supports voluntary, community, social enterprise, and public organisations to deliver locally-focused initiatives that reach individuals who may not access traditional health services. Projects aim to prevent suicide and connect vulnerable adults to help and support across West Sussex.
Overview
The Suicide Prevention Community Grants Program is designed to support practical, community-focused initiatives in West Sussex. Suicide is a leading cause of premature death, and this programme aims to reach individuals through community groups, sports clubs, and social organisations, helping them access support earlier. The initiative aligns with national priorities while addressing local needs.
Who Can Apply
Eligible applicants include:
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Voluntary, community, or social enterprise (VCSE) organisations
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Formally established public bodies delivering public or government services
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Charities registered with the Charity Commission
Additional Requirements:
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Projects must be delivered within West Sussex
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Focus on adults aged 18 and over, especially those at higher risk due to unemployment, financial stress, addiction, social isolation, or belonging to the LGBT+ community
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Each organisation may submit one application; joint applications are permitted as long as total funding requested does not exceed £5,000
Eligible Projects
Projects should:
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Reach adults at higher risk of suicide
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Use community-based approaches such as sports clubs, social groups, or local organisations
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Provide practical solutions for early support and intervention
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Encourage engagement with local mental health services and peer support networks
Funding Details
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Maximum funding: £5,000 per organisation
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Joint bids are allowed if the total request remains within the funding limit
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Projects should demonstrate practical impact and measurable outcomes
How to Apply
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Check Eligibility: Confirm your organisation meets the criteria outlined above.
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Define a Project: Develop a community-based initiative targeting adults at risk of suicide.
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Prepare an Application: Include project objectives, expected outcomes, budget, and target population.
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Submit Application: Follow the council’s application process and deadlines.
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Evaluation: Funded projects will be evaluated within six weeks of completion, with the latest evaluation date being 30 July 2026.
Why It Matters
The programme addresses the gap for individuals who may not access traditional health services. By supporting community-driven initiatives, the council ensures earlier intervention, strengthens local networks, and reduces risk factors associated with suicide.
Common Mistakes and Tips
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Mistake: Targeting populations outside West Sussex. Tip: Ensure all project activities take place within the county.
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Mistake: Submitting more than one application per organisation. Tip: Only one application is allowed, though joint bids are permitted.
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Mistake: Lack of measurable outcomes. Tip: Include clear, achievable objectives and evaluation plans to demonstrate impact.
FAQ
Q1: Who can apply for the grant? A: VCSE organisations, registered charities, and public bodies delivering services in West Sussex.
Q2: What is the funding limit? A: Up to £5,000 per organisation; joint bids are allowed within this limit.
Q3: Who should the projects target? A: Adults aged 18 and over, particularly those at higher risk due to social, financial, or personal factors.
Q4: Can joint applications be submitted? A: Yes, as long as the total funding request does not exceed £5,000.
Q5: What types of projects are eligible? A: Community-based interventions, outreach through social organisations, sports clubs, or peer support initiatives.
Q6: When will funded projects be evaluated? A: Within six weeks of project completion, with the latest evaluation by 30 July 2026.
Q7: Why is this grant important? A: It supports community-focused solutions for suicide prevention, reaching individuals who may not access traditional health services.
Conclusion
The West Sussex Suicide Prevention Community Grants Program provides essential funding for local organisations to implement practical, community-based solutions. By supporting projects that engage adults at risk and promote early intervention, the programme strengthens local mental health networks and contributes to meaningful reductions in suicide across the county.
For more information, visit West Sussex County Council.
