The Cambridgeshire Community Foundation has launched the Medworth Community Fund, providing up to £200,000 in funding each year to support non-profit organisations working to improve the natural environment, health, and wellbeing in communities around Wisbech. Grants ranging from £5,000 to £50,000 will be available for projects benefiting residents within a 5km radius of the Medworth Energy from Waste Combined Heat and Power Facility.
The fund is designed to support initiatives that deliver meaningful impact across three main areas: community, social and health outcomes, and environmental improvements. Projects may include creating or maintaining public amenity spaces, youth facilities, transport-related wellbeing initiatives, and remediating underused land. Social and health-focused projects could involve community enterprises that improve employment opportunities or initiatives that enhance overall health and wellbeing. Environmental projects may address low-carbon energy solutions, restoration of historic buildings, biodiversity management, nature-based solutions for flooding and climate challenges, and promoting recycling and the circular economy.
Viv Atkinson, Deputy CEO at Cambridgeshire Community Foundation, highlighted the fund’s role in turning ambitious local ideas into reality, supporting vital community work from improving public spaces to protecting the natural environment. The Medworth Community Fund has been made possible by MVV Environment Medworth Ltd, with applications accepted quarterly. Deadlines for this year are 1 May for both large and small grants, and 1 August for small grants only. Full eligibility guidance and application details are available on the Cambridgeshire Community Foundation website.
In addition, the Foundation is seeking local volunteers to join the Medworth Community Fund panel, helping to review applications and recommend projects for funding. Panel members, who should be residents of Wisbech or surrounding eligible areas, contribute approximately 12 hours per year to attend quarterly meetings and review grant applications. Interested individuals can apply via email or phone, with training provided for newly appointed members.
