Deadline: 30-Apr-2026
“A Place to Belong: Every Step of the Way – Systemic Change” is a UK funding programme supporting organisations tackling racial injustice in housing and homelessness. Grants of up to £450,000 are available as flexible core funding over 3–7 years. The initiative prioritizes systemic change, policy advocacy, and anti-racist approaches across the United Kingdom.
What is the Systemic Change Grant?
The Systemic Change grant under A Place to Belong: Every Step of the Way is a long-term funding initiative supporting organisations working to address racial injustice in housing and homelessness across the United Kingdom.
This programme focuses on root causes, not just symptoms. It funds organisations that:
- Challenge structural racism
- Advocate for policy reform
- Drive long-term systems change
Core Objective
The grant aims to:
- Transform housing and homelessness systems
- Address racial inequalities embedded in policies and services
- Build stronger, more equitable communities
Key Funding Priorities
1. Racial Justice in Housing and Homelessness
- Tackling systemic discrimination
- Promoting equitable access to housing
2. Policy Advocacy and Systems Change
- Influencing national and local housing policies
- Driving structural reform
3. Anti-Racist Organisational Practice
- Embedding anti-racist principles internally
- Strengthening inclusive governance and operations
4. Collective Power and Collaboration
- Building partnerships across sectors
- Amplifying community voices
Funding Details
- Total Fund Size: £1 million
- Grant Amount: Up to £450,000 per organisation
- Funding Type: Flexible core funding
- Duration: 3 to 7 years
What is Flexible Core Funding?
Flexible funding allows organisations to:
- Cover operational costs
- Invest in staff and systems
- Adapt strategies over time
This enables long-term sustainability and impact.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible Organisations
Eligibility Criteria
- Based in the United Kingdom
- Annual income between £200,000 and £10 million
- Demonstrated experience in:
- Racial justice
- Housing and homelessness
- Policy advocacy
Partnership Applications
- Up to three organisations can apply jointly
- One organisation must act as the lead applicant
Important Notes
- Government bodies can collaborate but cannot receive funding directly
- Only one application per organisation is allowed
What Types of Work Are Supported?
Eligible Activities
- Policy research and advocacy
- Community-led campaigns
- Systems change initiatives
- Capacity building and organisational development
- Cross-sector collaboration projects
Strong Applications Will Show
- Deep understanding of racial injustice in housing
- Evidence of impact and experience
- Clear strategy for systemic change
- Commitment to anti-racist practices
What is Not Funded?
The programme does not support:
- One-off events (unless part of ongoing work)
- Individual sponsorships or bursaries
- Politically partisan activities
- Religious evangelism or proselytisation
- General fundraising or marketing campaigns
Why This Grant Matters
Tackles Root Causes
Addresses systemic inequalities rather than short-term fixes.
Promotes Racial Equity
Supports organisations advancing justice in housing systems.
Enables Long-Term Impact
Multi-year funding allows sustained and meaningful change.
Strengthens Civil Society
Builds capacity of organisations working on complex social issues.
How to Apply
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Check Eligibility
Confirm organisational income, location, and experience - Define Your Strategy
Focus on systemic change and racial justice outcomes - Develop a Proposal
Include:- Objectives and theory of change
- Activities and partnerships
- Expected impact
- Prepare Supporting Documents
Provide financial data, organisational background, and track record - Submit Application
Apply through the official grant portal - Evaluation Process
Applications are assessed based on impact, alignment, and feasibility - Funding Decision
Selected organisations receive multi-year funding support
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Focusing only on service delivery instead of systemic change
- Weak connection to racial justice issues
- Lack of clear long-term strategy
- Submitting multiple applications (not allowed)
- Proposing short-term or one-off activities
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly define systemic change goals
- Demonstrate policy influence and advocacy experience
- Show commitment to anti-racist practices
- Highlight collaboration and partnerships
- Provide a strong theory of change
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the main goal of this grant?
To address racial injustice in housing and homelessness through systemic change.
2. How much funding is available?
Up to £450,000 per organisation over 3–7 years.
3. Who can apply?
UK-based charities and social organisations with relevant experience.
4. Can organisations apply in partnership?
Yes, up to three organisations can apply together.
5. Are government organisations eligible?
They can collaborate but cannot receive funding directly.
6. What kind of projects are prioritised?
Projects focused on policy change, advocacy, and systemic reform.
7. Can an organisation submit multiple applications?
No, only one application is allowed per organisation.
Conclusion
The A Place to Belong – Systemic Change Grant offers a significant opportunity to drive structural reform in housing and homelessness systems across the United Kingdom. By focusing on racial justice and long-term change, the programme empowers organisations to challenge inequality at its roots.
For more information, visit Comic Relief.