Latest Community Grant Scheme Launches

Island projects making a difference in their community could be eligible for a funding boost.

New and existing schemes supporting Isle of Wight residents who are struggling with food, utility-related items or wider essentials are being invited to apply for a community grant.

The scheme is being administered by the Isle of Wight Council using its allocation from the Household Support Fund (HSF), granted by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Around 250 grants have been awarded to local organisations by the scheme since October 2021.

The total amount available for grants this time round will be £530,000.

As well as supporting people in financial crisis with support around food, utility costs and wider essentials, the council is also looking for projects that help prevent households from falling into, or further into crisis.

This could include things like teaching cooking skills, providing community kitchens, or offering joined-up advice and support.

The council is also interested in new and creative ideas that could receive seed funding to help people live free from poverty and inequality, in line with the Isle of Wight Poverty Reduction Strategy. 

Ian Lloyd, Strategic Manager for Partnerships and Support Services, Isle of Wight Council, said:

"Grants like these play a vital role in supporting the Island’s many community-led projects, helping them grow and continue delivering essential services—particularly to those who need them most.

"I’d really encourage more local groups and organisations to explore what this funding could offer their communities.”

The council would welcome applications from community and voluntary groups, charities, faith groups, schools, colleges and early years settings as well as town, parish and community councils.

The deadline for applications is Wednesday, 2 July.

Further application windows will be open in September and January so groups and organisations will have other opportunities to apply.

The community grants scheme is just one of the ways the council is supporting Island residents via the HSF.

Further information on how organisations can apply for a community grant is available on the council's Household Support Fund web pages.