Strengthening Communities

Strengthening Communities is a funding program by The National Lottery Community Fund aimed at supporting community-led projects that leverage local strengths to improve lives, particularly for those experiencing poverty, disadvantage, or discrimination.

Objectives:

• Support projects led by communities that build on their strengths and connections.
• Focus on early intervention to prevent negative experiences.
• Achieve at least one of the following outcomes:
  • Reduce health inequalities.
  • Improve physical health, mental health, or wellbeing.
  • Foster positive relationships and connections.
  • Help young people reach their potential and thrive as adults.
  • Develop good social and emotional skills in children and young people.

Target Beneficiaries:

• People facing poverty, disadvantage, or discrimination.
• Vulnerable or excluded communities, especially those hard to reach due to social exclusion or lack of access to online services.
• Projects must be inclusive and accessible to these groups.

Application Process:

1. Contact the fund for an informal discussion via email or phone.
2. Submit an online idea form describing the project.
3. Receive feedback within 30 working days on whether to proceed with a full application.
4. If invited, complete the full application online within 60 calendar days.
5. Participate in a face-to-face assessment visit.
6. Receive a funding decision within 4 months.
7. If successful, follow guidance on managing the grant.

Key Features:

• Funding range: £20,001 to £500,000 for up to 5 years.
• Any size organization can apply for £200,000 to £500,000; smaller organizations (annual income under £500,000) can apply for less.
• Eligible applicants include unregistered voluntary/community organizations, not-for-profit companies, registered charities, and Community Interest Companies.
• Requires at least 3 unrelated board or committee members.
• Funds can cover staff, equipment, training, transport, utilities, volunteer expenses, small refurbishments, and overheads.
• Does not fund capital projects, retrospective costs, alcohol, political party activities, statutory activities, or projects outside the UK.
• Emphasizes learning from project outcomes and measuring impact.
• Encourages consideration of environmental impact and safeguarding practices.

This program is designed to empower communities to address local challenges through inclusive, preventative, and sustainable projects that improve wellbeing and social cohesion.