Community Groups Urged To Apply For Cost Of Living Funding Before Deadline

Isle of Wight community groups have just weeks left to apply for funding designed to help residents cope with the cost of living and build long-term financial resilience.

Local organisations, charities and town or parish councils are being invited to apply to the Isle of Wight Council’s Community Grant Scheme, which is funded through the Department for Work and Pensions’ Household Support Fund.

Applications have been open throughout the winter, but the council has warned that funding will no longer be available after this month.

The one-off funding pot of £530,000 is open to both new and existing projects that support households facing financial difficulties.

This can include help with essentials such as food and utility costs, as well as initiatives that aim to prevent future hardship by promoting financial independence.

Examples of eligible projects include community kitchens, cooking and budgeting classes, and services that offer joined-up advice and support.

Since the scheme began in October 2021, around 250 grants have been awarded, supporting a wide range of grassroots projects across the Island.

The council is particularly keen to hear from organisations with innovative ideas that support the Isle of Wight Poverty Reduction Strategy.

Ian Lloyd, the council’s Strategic Manager for Partnerships and Support Services, said the funding has been a lifeline for many local projects.

He said it is not only about addressing immediate need, but also about helping communities build resilience and support long-term change.

The Household Support Fund is due to end in March 2026, with no further funding expected beyond that point.

Groups are being urged to see this as their final opportunity to benefit from the scheme.

Full details and application information can be found on the Isle of Wight Council’s Household Support Fund webpages.