Deadline: 02-Mar-2026
The HPC Community Fund Small Grants program provides £10,000–£20,000 to small, local groups working to improve wellbeing and quality of life in communities affected by Hinkley Point C (HPC).
The fund supports community-led projects that respond directly to local needs, helping residents manage change, strengthen services, and build healthier, more resilient communities.
Overview
The HPC Community Fund Small Grants is a local funding initiative designed to support community groups operating in areas impacted by Hinkley Point C, one of the UK’s largest infrastructure projects.
The fund recognizes that major developments can bring both opportunities and challenges, and it aims to help communities adapt by supporting projects that enhance wellbeing, quality of life, and local services.
Funding is targeted at small, community-based organizations that are well-governed and closely connected to local residents.
Purpose and Focus of the Fund
The primary purpose of the HPC Community Fund Small Grants is to support projects that help communities respond to change caused by the Hinkley Point C development.
Key Focus Areas
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Improving community wellbeing and mental health
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Enhancing quality of life for local residents
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Strengthening community facilities, services, or activities
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Addressing local challenges linked to population change, infrastructure pressure, or social impacts
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Supporting inclusive and community-led solutions
Projects must demonstrate a clear and direct benefit to local people living in HPC-affected areas.
Grant Amounts and Duration
Available Grant Sizes
Applicants can apply for funding under one of the following options:
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Up to £10,000 for a one-year project
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Up to £20,000 spread over three years
The level of funding requested should be appropriate to the scale and impact of the proposed project.
Eligible Costs
Funding may be used for costs directly related to delivering community activities or services, provided they align with the fund’s objectives and demonstrate value for money.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible Organizations
To apply, groups must meet all of the following criteria:
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Operate in an area impacted by Hinkley Point C
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Be a small, local organization with an annual income under £250,000
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Have a clear community focus and local presence
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Demonstrate a genuine need for funding
Governance and Standards Requirements
Applicants must meet HPC’s minimum standards, which include:
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Appropriate governance structures
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Sound financial management and accountability
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Safeguarding policies and safe working practices
These requirements ensure that funded groups are well-managed and capable of delivering projects safely and effectively.
How the HPC Community Fund Small Grants Works
Step-by-Step Process
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Identify a local issue or opportunity linked to the impacts of Hinkley Point C.
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Design a project that clearly improves wellbeing or quality of life for local residents.
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Ensure your organization meets the required governance, financial, and safeguarding standards.
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Choose the appropriate grant size and project duration.
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Submit an application demonstrating local need, community benefit, and deliverability.
Only applications that clearly align with the fund’s objectives and eligibility criteria are considered.
Why This Fund Matters
Large infrastructure projects can significantly change local communities. The HPC Community Fund Small Grants plays a vital role in ensuring that residents benefit from investment, not just cope with disruption.
Community Impact
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Helps local groups respond quickly to emerging needs
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Strengthens community resilience during periods of change
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Supports grassroots organizations with limited access to funding
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Improves everyday services, activities, and shared spaces
By investing locally, the fund helps ensure that development leads to long-term community wellbeing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Applying without clearly showing how the project benefits HPC-affected communities
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Requesting funding without demonstrating organizational capacity or governance
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Proposing projects that are too broad or not clearly focused on wellbeing
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Failing to evidence local need or community demand
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Applying for multi-year funding without a realistic long-term delivery plan
Strong applications are specific, locally grounded, and well-planned.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the HPC Community Fund Small Grants program?
It is a funding program that supports small community groups working to improve wellbeing and quality of life in areas affected by Hinkley Point C.
How much funding can groups apply for?
Groups can apply for up to £10,000 for one year or up to £20,000 over three years.
Who can apply?
Small, local organizations with annual incomes under £250,000 that operate in HPC-affected areas and meet governance standards.
What types of projects are supported?
Projects that directly improve community wellbeing, local services, or quality of life for residents.
Are only local groups eligible?
Yes. Funding is only available to groups operating in areas impacted by Hinkley Point C.
Do applicants need formal policies in place?
Yes. Groups must meet minimum standards for governance, financial management, and safeguarding.
Is this fund competitive?
Yes. Applications are assessed based on eligibility, local need, impact, and organizational capacity.
Conclusion
The HPC Community Fund Small Grants program is a vital funding opportunity for small community organizations working in areas affected by Hinkley Point C.
By supporting locally led projects that enhance wellbeing and quality of life, the fund helps communities adapt to change, strengthen services, and build a healthier future for residents.
For more information, visit Somerset Community Foundation.
