Over the next three years, Service Support Grants will provide £300,000 annually to local organisations delivering essential services that support residents of all ages. The funding will help groups address a wide range of needs, including mental health support, independent living, advice services, accessible transport, and assistance for households facing cost-of-living pressures, ensuring vital help continues to reach vulnerable communities.
The annual allocation represents a significant increase from the previous budget of £167,400, reflecting a strengthened commitment to community wellbeing, reducing inequality, and tackling social isolation. By nearly doubling the available funding, the Council aims to reinforce the stability and capacity of local organisations that play a critical role in everyday support across the district.
A wide range of community and voluntary organisations will benefit from the grants, including those providing free and confidential advice, disability support, accessible transport, specialist services for survivors of sexual violence, and care and discharge support for older residents. Funding will also strengthen infrastructure support for the voluntary and community sector and enable wellbeing programmes for people experiencing anxiety, bereavement, and social isolation.
The grants also support organisations working with specific age groups, particularly children and young people. Funded services include children’s mental health support, trauma-informed family assistance, home-visiting services, youth work programmes, and initiatives aimed at improving wellbeing, confidence, and employment outcomes for young women.
In addition, several organisations focused on all-age and older resident services will receive support to help people with low vision or blindness, families facing poverty, and older residents seeking to maintain independence. These services contribute to improved quality of life, stronger community connections, and greater inclusion across age groups.
The 2026–2029 funding allocations were awarded following a rigorous assessment process to ensure resources are directed where they can deliver the greatest impact. Final decisions were approved by the Lead Cabinet Member for Resources following review and recommendations from the Grants Advisory Committee, reinforcing transparency and accountability in the distribution of public funds.
