Waverley opens new funding round to support local community organisations

Waverley Borough Council has opened a new round of funding to support local not-for-profit organisations delivering vital services for some of the borough's most vulnerable residents.

The one-off Thriving Communities Commissioning Fund 2027-2028 will provide grants of between £3,000 and £35,000 to organisations delivering projects and activities that make a positive difference to communities across Waverley.

The funding will support projects running from 1 April 2027 to 31 March 2028 and is focused on four key priorities:

• Improving people's health and wellbeing

• Enabling access to information, advice and guidance

• Reducing social isolation and loneliness

• Building stronger, connected communities

The scheme is open to not-for-profit organisations delivering services within Waverley that support people with higher needs, those who are vulnerable, or those experiencing disadvantage.

The new funding round builds on the Council's existing investment in the voluntary and community sector through its Thriving Communities Commissioning Fund, which is already providing three-year funding to local organisations from April 2025 to March 2028. This additional one-off opportunity will help more organisations deliver projects that support residents and strengthen communities across Waverley.

Councillor Kika Mirylees, Waverley Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Community Services, Leisure and EDI, said:

"Our voluntary and community sector plays a vital role in supporting residents and helping people access the services, advice and connections they need to thrive.

"Local organisations provide invaluable support every day, often reaching people who may otherwise struggle to get the help they need. They help reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and strengthen communities across the borough.

"We are pleased to be opening this one-off funding round to support organisations delivering this important work and encourage eligible groups to apply."

Funding is available towards the delivery of specific projects or activities that align with one or more of the fund's priorities. While the scheme does not provide core funding for an organisation's general running costs, applications can include reasonable operating costs necessary to deliver the proposed project or activity.

Applications and supporting documents must be submitted to communities@waverley.gov.uk.   The deadline for applications and supporting documents is 5pm on Monday 21 December 2026

Applications will be assessed by a panel in January 2027, with applicants expected to be notified of funding decisions in February 2027.

For full eligibility criteria, guidance documents and to complete an application, visit www.waverley.gov.uk/thrivingcommunitiescommissioningfund.

For further information, contact communities@waverley.gov.uk or call 01483 523067.