Deadline: 06-Mar-2026
The Blaby District Council Community Grants scheme supports voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations in enhancing facilities, running activities, and addressing social needs for residents. Funding options include capital, revenue, and activity grants with varying match-funding requirements, aimed at strengthening community infrastructure and engagement.
Overview of the Scheme
The Blaby District Council Community Grants program helps VCS organisations develop and strengthen community facilities and activities across the district. The initiative provides financial support to projects that benefit local residents, improve infrastructure, and enhance participation in community life. Key funding types include:
-
Capital Green Grants: Up to £5,000, requiring 20% match funding.
-
Large Capital Grants: Up to £5,000, requiring 50% match funding.
-
Small Capital Grants: Up to £500.
-
Revenue Grants: Up to £500 to support ongoing community activities.
-
Everyone Active Grants: Up to £500 for initiatives promoting inclusive participation.
Why the Scheme Matters
The scheme supports organisations that deliver tangible benefits to the local community, including:
-
Enhancing community facilities such as halls, sports venues, or recreational spaces.
-
Supporting inclusive activities and events for all residents.
-
Addressing urgent social needs, including warm spaces, energy costs, and food insecurity.
-
Strengthening the capacity and sustainability of local voluntary organisations.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
-
Community groups, youth and sports clubs, registered charities, social enterprises (e.g., Community Interest Companies).
-
PTAs or fundraising groups not undertaking statutory school responsibilities.
-
Churches or religious bodies for community halls open to all, or inclusive community events.
-
Food banks affiliated with national networks (e.g., Trussell Trust) or linked to Parish Councils.
-
Single application rule: Only one application per organisation at a time, generally once every 24 months.
-
Exceptions exist for priority projects, including Capital Green Grants, Warm Spaces, urgent cost-of-living support, or high energy/fuel costs.
How the Program Works
1. Application Process
-
Identify the type of grant suitable for your project (capital, revenue, or activity).
-
Ensure match funding requirements are met where applicable.
-
Prepare supporting documents detailing the project, community impact, and budget.
2. Submission and Assessment
-
Submit one application at a time via the council’s online or paper submission process.
-
Applications are assessed by a grant panel against eligibility, community impact, sustainability, and alignment with council priorities.
3. Funding and Implementation
-
Successful organisations receive grant funding to implement projects.
-
Organisations are expected to report on outcomes and ensure funding is used for approved purposes.
-
Funded projects should deliver measurable benefits to local residents and community life.
Common Mistakes and Tips
-
Mistake: Applying without meeting match-funding requirements. Tip: Confirm required contributions before submission.
-
Mistake: Submitting multiple applications simultaneously. Tip: Submit only one application per organisation at a time.
-
Mistake: Targeting projects outside council priorities. Tip: Focus on community facilities, activities, or urgent social needs.
-
Mistake: Applying for statutory school responsibilities. Tip: Ensure projects are outside statutory obligations.
FAQ
1. Who can apply for the grants?
Community groups, charities, social enterprises, youth/sports clubs, PTAs, religious bodies (for inclusive community purposes), and registered food banks.
2. What funding types are available?
Capital Green Grants (£5,000, 20% match), Large Capital Grants (£5,000, 50% match), Small Capital Grants (£500), Revenue Grants (£500), and Everyone Active Grants (£500).
3. Can organisations submit multiple applications?
No, generally only one application at a time and one award per 24 months, except for priority projects.
4. Are food banks eligible?
Yes, if affiliated with recognised national networks or linked to a Parish Council.
5. What types of projects are funded?
Projects enhancing community facilities, supporting inclusive activities, or addressing urgent social needs such as energy costs or warm spaces.
6. What is match funding?
The applicant’s contribution required for certain grants, either 20% for Capital Green Grants or 50% for Large Capital Grants.
7. How are applications assessed?
By a panel reviewing eligibility, community impact, sustainability, and alignment with council priorities.
Conclusion
The Blaby District Council Community Grants scheme enables VCS organisations to strengthen community infrastructure, deliver inclusive activities, and address pressing social needs. By providing targeted capital and revenue support, the initiative helps local organisations create lasting benefits for residents across the Blaby district.
For more information, visit Blaby District Council.
