community grants case studies
How our community grants have helped people in County Durham
The believe housing community grants scheme has made a significant impact on a wide range of local groups across County Durham. These grants provide essential funding to projects that make a real difference in the community and to believe housing customers.
From supporting mental health clubs and community gardens to youth centres and local activities, the grants have enabled numerous initiatives that enhance the well-being and quality of life for residents.
Key areas of impact include:
- Health and Well-being: Grants have funded projects that improve both mental and physical health, such as mental health support groups and fitness programs.
- Employability and Training: Initiatives that offer training, volunteering opportunities, and other upskilling activities have been supported, helping residents gain new skills and improve their job prospects.
- Increasing Household Income: Projects providing debt and benefit advice, money management support, and food assistance have been crucial in helping families manage their finances more effectively.
- A Greener, Fairer Future: Environmental projects that focus on reducing, reusing, and recycling have been funded, promoting sustainability within the community .
- Tackling Inequalities: Grants have supported initiatives aimed at addressing inequalities exacerbated by the cost-of-living crisis, ensuring that vulnerable groups receive the help they need.
By making these grants accessible and flexible, believe housing has empowered local groups to launch and sustain projects that bring meaningful change to their communities. Whether it’s a new initiative or an enhancement of an existing one, these grants help turn ideas into action.
Houghton Brass Hits the Right Notes
A £500 grant from believe housing is helping Houghton Brass shine with new all-weather jackets for their dedicated volunteers.
This talented group has been bringing music to County Durham for over 40 years—performing everywhere from youth events to the Durham Miners Gala.
Supporting Sensory Needs Across County Durham
We’re proud to have awarded The Learning Library in Spennymoor a £3,000 community grant to help reduce wait times for sensory equipment!
With over 550 members and increasing demand, our funding has enabled them to expand their reach across County Durham, helping more people access the support they need.
Helping to Bring People Together
A £1,000 grant from believe housing is supporting the Friendly Faces project in West Rainton & Leamside, creating a warm space for connection and community.
Each month, 50–60 people come together to share food, friendship, and support with everyday challenges.
Bringing People Together Over Breakfast
Thanks to a £10,000 grant from believe housing, the Laughy Café breakfast club is supporting over-50s in Durham with free weekly breakfasts and fun activities.
Nearly 30 locals now come together every Tuesday to connect, relax, and enjoy everything from bingo to bucket list adventures.
Supporting Grassroots Football and Community
We’ve teamed up with Willington AFC to upgrade facilities at Hall Lane, right in the heart of a believe housing community.
Thanks to cross-team collaboration and supplier support, new showers are now in place—boosting local pride and player experience.
Young Voices, Big Impact
With support from believe housing and STARS Community Learning CIC, young people in County Durham are leading change on the issues that matter to them.
From dog ownership in Hesleden to road safety in Oakerside and festive support in Wheatley Hill, their £10,000-backed projects are turning ideas into action.
Community Gardening Making a Real Difference
With support from a £19,300 grant from believe housing, Cultivate 4 Life is helping residents like 75-year-old Nita Stocks care for their gardens, reducing stress and improving wellbeing.
The service offers practical support for those facing barriers to garden upkeep, helping people stay independent and communities thrive.
Positive Changes in Seaham
We’re tackling antisocial behaviour in Seaham by funding Youth Connect Seaham, a £30,000 project run by Groundwork NE & Cumbria that gives young people fun, free activities to build confidence and community pride. Alongside this, environmental clean-ups and resident-led events are helping to transform Deneside and Eastlea into safer, more vibrant neighbourhoods.
Funding secures future of Easington play group
A £5,000 grant from believe housing was used to train three new leaders for ParkPlay sessions in Easington Colliery.
Established with Sport England funding, activities are agreed by local families and planned and delivered by Play Leaders, who are usually parents or carers who attend regularly.
Children launch book after literacy project
Year three and four pupils at Oakley Cross Primary School created their very own book after receiving grant funding from believe housing.
Through workshops, home activities, and school events, Willow Class children crafted characters, storylines, and artwork for a book about a wish-granting tree.
“The Wise and Wondrous Wishing Tree” book was recently published and each child received a free copy and it’s also available at Oakleaf, a local tearoom and shop.