Reaching Communities: Big Lottery Fund

Aims of Fund

To improve local communities and people most in need, and fund projects which will replace or improve buildings where a wide range of community activities take place.

Who can apply

Local organisations that are:

• registered charities
• voluntary and community groups
• statutory bodies
• charitable or not-for-profit companies
• social enterprises

Refer to their 'Key Messages' document for specific guidelines.

How much and what can you apply for

This fund is only available for projects in 'the most deprived' areas (using the 2007 Index of Multiple Deprivation for England). Some areas of Brighton and Hove are eligible, but others are not. There is an online postcode checker that you can use to find out about your area.

Your project must be able to bring about the following changes:

• people having better chances in life, because they are able to get training and development to improve their skills
• stronger communities, with people working together to tackle their problems
• improved rural and urban environments, which more people are able to enjoy
• healthier and more active people and communities

There are now two different parts of this fund.

Reaching Communities

Grants of £10,000 to £500,000 for revenue projects and/or smaller capital projects up to £50,000.

Examples of awards to local groups:

• Home-Start South Downs received close to £180,000 for their Rural Outreach Family Support project to assist struggling families in their own homes.
• Young Voice received £14,632 to help young people in East Sussex learn about relationships and how to keep safe when dating thanks.
• The Crime Reduction Initiatives (CRI) project will be awarded £194,999 to help children in East Sussex overcome the trauma of domestic violence through play and art therapies and counselling.

Reaching Community Buildings

You can apply for funding of £100,000 to £500,000 for large capital projects for improvements to community buildings.

How to apply

Complete an Outline Proposal Form from the website. You will then be contacted to let you know if you can submit a full application.

If you are applying for less than £40,000 per year you should get a final decision within 9 weeks.

If you are applying for Reaching Community Buildings, you will have to complete a third application stage, but you may be awarded development funding to help with this.

Deadlines for application

No deadlines. This fund is due to close in 2013.

Contact details