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.
Express your interest
We are seeking proposals from community groups, voluntary organisations and not-for-profit organisations to deliver projects that address local priorities across central Durham through two targeted funding streams.
Funding stream one: Ushaw Moor Antisocial Behaviour Projects
Funding is available for projects that help tackle antisocial behaviour within the Ushaw Moor area.
Projects should demonstrate how they will respond to local needs and make a positive impact on the Ushaw Moor community. We welcome innovative ideas that bring people together, build resilience, and offer constructive alternatives for young people and residents affected by antisocial behaviour.
We particularly welcome creative approaches that engage local residents and promote positive community outcomes.
Funding stream two: Befriending and Social Isolation Projects
Funding is available in Brandon, Browney, Langley Moor and Meadowfield for projects that provide befriending services and support to reduce social isolation and improve wellbeing.
We welcome applications from organisations that can demonstrate how their service will create positive outcomes for local residents by building social connections, reducing isolation, and ensuring people can access the support they need to thrive within their communities.
Projects should clearly identify the local need they are addressing, the activities they will deliver and the outcomes they expect to achieve.
Applicants should also consider how they will overcome barriers to participation, including the provision of transport or travel support where appropriate, to ensure beneficiaries can access activities, services and community opportunities.
Application process
The first stage of the process is the submission of an expression of interest (EOI) form.
Once we receive your EOI, we will review the information provided and may contact you for further details. Organisations that demonstrate a strong fit with the programme objectives may then be invited to submit a full funding application.
We encourage interested organisations to start developing their ideas now and look forward to receiving proposals that will make a meaningful difference in local communities.
Opening date: Now open
Closing date for EOI: Monday, 24 August 2026
Closing date for applications: Monday, 7 September 2026
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.