The Community Grants Scheme provides £10,000–£75,000 to UK not-for-profit organizations, local authorities, and Environmental Bodies to improve community buildings and outdoor spaces for public benefit. Projects must focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and community engagement, with physical improvements completed within 12 months and total costs not exceeding £350,000. Eligible sites include community centers, parks, sports grounds, and nature reserves.

About the Community Grants Scheme

The Community Grants Scheme supports initiatives that enhance community infrastructure while promoting wellbeing, engagement, and sustainability. The scheme encourages volunteering, consultation with users, and inclusive design to create accessible spaces that benefit communities of all ages and backgrounds.

Funding Details

• Grant amount: £10,000 to £75,000 per project

• Total project cost limit: £350,000

• Project duration: Must be completed within 12 months

• Eligible sites: Single-site projects including:

  • Community centres

  • Public parks, play areas, skate parks, multi-use games areas

  • Sports grounds and woodlands

  • Nature reserves and community gardens

  • Public rights of way and inland waterways

Who is Eligible?

• Constituted not-for-profit organisations

• Local authorities

• Environmental Bodies

• Applicants must:

  • Own the land, or

  • Hold a lease with at least seven years remaining, or

  • Partner with a Local Authority landowner

• No shared directors or trustees between the applicant and landowner if using leased land

• All necessary planning or religious approvals must be obtained prior to application

Programme Objectives

• Promote community action and wellbeing

• Ensure consultation with all current and potential site users

• Increase volunteering opportunities

• Foster inclusivity and accessibility for diverse groups

• Inspire creation of sustainable, carbon-neutral community spaces

How to Apply / What to Do

1. Confirm eligibility of your organization and project site

2. Ensure all permissions and approvals are secured

3. Develop a project plan including:

   • Physical improvement works

   • Budget and cost breakdown

   • Community engagement strategy

4. Submit the grant application with supporting documentation

5. Complete the project within 12 months of the start date

6. Report progress and demonstrate community impact

Tips for a Successful Application

• Clearly demonstrate community consultation and user engagement

• Include inclusive and accessible design features

• Highlight sustainability measures such as carbon-neutral practices

• Provide a detailed, realistic budget and timeline

• Ensure land ownership or valid lease documentation is included

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the Community Grants Scheme?
Constituted not-for-profit organizations, local authorities, and Environmental Bodies in the UK.

2. What types of projects are eligible?
Projects improving community buildings or outdoor spaces such as parks, play areas, sports grounds, nature reserves, and community gardens.

3. What is the maximum grant and project cost?
Grants range from £10,000 to £75,000, with total project costs not exceeding £350,000.

4. How long do projects have to be completed?
Projects must be completed within 12 months of the start date.

5. Are planning permissions required?
Yes, all necessary planning or religious approvals must be secured before applying.

6. Can leased land be used for projects?
Yes, provided the lease has at least seven years remaining, and there are no shared directors or trustees with the landowner.

7. What are the key priorities for funded projects?
Inclusivity, accessibility, sustainability, community engagement, volunteering, and carbon-neutral design.

Conclusion

The Community Grants Scheme enables organizations to enhance community spaces, foster engagement, and create sustainable environments where residents can thrive. By funding accessible, inclusive, and well-managed projects, the programme strengthens community infrastructure, wellbeing, and social cohesion across the United Kingdom.