What we want to fund
In your application, you’ll need to show how you will:
- bring people together, through an activity or a space, online or in person
- reach and support people affected by poverty, disadvantage or discrimination
- be led by your community. This means that people from your community lead on the project idea, planning and decisions
- build on the strengths, skills and experience already in your community
- understand services and activities available, and show how your project fills a gap
What your project must achieve
Your project must meet at least 2 of these outcomes:
- build positive relationships
- support people’s health or wellbeing
- help people improve their access and connection to nature
- make a positive difference to the environment
You can aim for more than 2 outcomes, but doing more won’t increase your chances of getting funding.
These outcomes align with our community-led missions.
The types of projects we fund
We fund a wide range of projects, especially those your community needs and values.
Here are some examples of the kinds of projects that could meet our outcomes:
- regular programme of activities that support wellbeing and help people connect
- community kitchens, larders, pantries and advice or support services
- community gardens or growing projects
- environmental clean-ups, waste reduction activities or workshops on mending, repairing and upcycling
If you're unsure whether your project is a good fit, please get in touch, and we'll discuss it further.
Reducing your environmental impact
We care about our environment and encourage projects to reduce their environmental impact as well.
Find out how to make your project more sustainable and save money too.
If you’re working with children, young people or vulnerable adults
You must have a policy in place that explains how you’ll keep them safe.
If we award you funding, you’ll also need to meet our safeguarding expectations.
The SCVO website has helpful advice and resources on safeguarding.
Where to get help
You can get advice and support with your application from your local authority or Third Sector Interface (TSI).