Deadline: 28-Apr-2026
The Addressing Mental Health Inequalities in Minority Ethnic Groups fund offers £2,500–£10,000 in grants to Black-led organisations in Leeds. The program supports initiatives aimed at reducing the disproportionate detention of Black men under the Mental Health Act through culturally appropriate, community-based solutions with clear outcome measurement.
Overview of the Fund
This initiative is a partnership between Leeds Community Foundation and Synergi Leeds, designed to empower Black-led organisations to improve mental health outcomes for Black men aged over 18.
Key objectives include:
- Reducing stigma and building trust with mental health services
- Supporting recovery within communities
- Ensuring holistic approaches that consider the whole person
- Strengthening pathways into crisis and inpatient services
- Implementing clear outcome measurement strategies from the start
The fund emphasizes community-based solutions, recognizing the unique needs and experiences of Black men in Leeds.
Funding Details
- Grant Range: £2,500 – £10,000
- Supported Activities:
- Creating trusted and creative spaces for engagement
- Supporting access to mental health services and maintaining engagement
- Strengthening organisational capacity through skills development and technology
- Collaboration with statutory services
- Combining individual support with peer support where appropriate
Who is Eligible?
- Black-led organisations with active involvement of Black men in co-design, delivery, or research roles
- Demonstrated holistic approach to mental health
- Clear strategies for building pathways into crisis and inpatient care
- Proven capacity for measuring outcomes effectively
Eligibility by grant size:
- Up to £5,000: Small unincorporated organisations with annual incomes under £10,000 and registered/incorporated not-for-profit organisations
- Above £5,000: Only incorporated not-for-profit organisations and registered charities
Governance requirements for all applicants:
- Minimum of three unrelated trustees or directors
- Formal governing document
- Operational bank account with appropriate signatories
- Transparent financial records
Ineligible Activities
The fund does not support:
- Activities that have already taken place
- Discriminatory initiatives without justification
- Political or religious promotion
- Capital building projects
- Applications from individuals, statutory bodies, or overseas organisations
How to Apply
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure the organisation is Black-led and meets governance and financial requirements.
- Design Project: Develop a holistic mental health initiative targeting Black men over 18 in Leeds, including strategies for crisis and inpatient pathways.
- Outcome Measurement: Include clear metrics and evaluation plans from the outset.
- Prepare Budget: Clearly outline how funds will be used in alignment with fund objectives.
- Submit Application: Follow guidelines provided by Leeds Community Foundation and Synergi Leeds.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Engage Black men directly in co-design or delivery roles
- Clearly demonstrate community impact and cultural appropriateness
- Combine individual and peer support approaches where possible
- Include robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms
- Align the proposal with fund priorities and objectives
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for this fund?
Eligible applicants are Black-led organisations in Leeds with active involvement of Black men in project design or delivery.
2. What is the funding range?
Grants range from £2,500 to £10,000, depending on organisation type and project scope.
3. Are small unincorporated groups eligible?
Yes, for grants up to £5,000, small unincorporated organisations with annual incomes under £10,000 can apply.
4. Can individuals or statutory bodies apply?
No, applications from individuals, statutory bodies, or overseas organisations are not eligible.
5. What types of projects are supported?
Community-based mental health initiatives that reduce stigma, improve recovery, strengthen trust with services, and measure outcomes.
6. Are political or religious projects eligible?
No, the fund does not support projects promoting political or religious agendas.
7. How are outcomes evaluated?
Projects must include clear methods for monitoring and evaluating mental health outcomes from the start.
Conclusion
The Addressing Mental Health Inequalities in Minority Ethnic Groups fund offers critical financial support to Black-led organisations in Leeds, enabling them to implement culturally responsive, community-driven initiatives that reduce the disproportionate detention of Black men under the Mental Health Act. By emphasizing holistic approaches, trusted engagement, and measurable outcomes, this fund strengthens local capacity to improve mental health and community wellbeing.
For more information, visit Leeds Community Foundation.