Community development fund
We’re changing how we award larger grants, using a place‑based approach to focus on projects that make the biggest local impact. Priorities will be informed by local insight, and if no group can deliver them, we may open applications.
Building Stronger, Healthier Communities
We are committed to improving our customers’ lives not only by providing safe, affordable homes, but by investing in the places where people live, work, and connect.
That’s why strengthening communities is at the heart of our purpose.
Our Commitment
We are working closely with local partners — from councils and statutory services to charities and the voluntary sector — to understand local priorities and tackle the issues that matter most to residents.
By bringing people and organisations together, we can achieve more, create bigger change, and build communities that are safer, healthier, and more resilient.
Listening is central to our approach. Data and research give us valuable insight, but the real story comes from the people who live and work in our neighbourhoods. Their experiences and ideas help shape our decisions and ensure our investment makes a meaningful difference.
We will be using a range of methods to identify local needs and develop projects that respond to the issues affecting our neighbourhoods. This may involve approaching community groups directly or running open calls focused on specific areas or themes.
Please keep an eye on our website and social media channels for updates on opportunities to get involved.
If you would like to tell us about an issue in your area, please complete the community insight form. If you are part of a group that would like to be considered for future project delivery, we’d also love to hear from you. (Please note this is not a funding request.)
Projects must include revenue costs, this can include:
- Setting up of classes, sessions, activities, and events for the community.
- Buying equipment for a community-based activity, that does not qualify as capital.
- On costs of the project for example, staff time, sessional workers, equipment, and resources required to deliver the project. Room hire costs are also acceptable but not exceeding 50% of the total grant amount requested from us.
- Providing refreshments, snacks, and meals as part of an activity.
- Marketing and promotion to increase participation in activities up to a value of 5% of the funding request.
- Travel costs which are integral to an activity.
- Project management costs, not exceeding 10% of the overall project value.
- Core funding may also be considered.
You can include an element of capital work for up to 50% cost of the total grant funding requested from us. If you have a capital element you wish to be considered, please speak to one of our community investment coordinators before submitting an expression of interest.
The Community Development Fund is unable to support:
- Major capital works have a conversation with community investment coordinator before applying
- Ongoing running costs of an organisation e.g. utility bills and insurance
- Items that are purchased on behalf of another organisation.
- Applications to develop the financial reserves of the organisation.
- Religious, party political or lobbying activities (non-religious and multi-faith activities may be funded)
- Loans or debt repayments
- Projects and activities for personal profit.
To be eligible for the Community Development Fund, projects are generally expected to run for nine to 12 months.
In some circumstances, funding may be considered for projects lasting up to two years.
Priority will be given to proposals that can demonstrate sustainability beyond the funding period.
Projects awarded funding must commence within one month of receiving the first payment instalment.