A new grant funding opportunity has launched for infrastructure organisations that support the Voluntary, Community and Faith (VCF) sector across the Westmorland and Furness area.
Infrastructure organisations play a vital role in strengthening and connecting frontline VCF sector groups. They provide leadership, advocacy, capacity building, and support for volunteering, enabling smaller charities and community groups to thrive.
Through the Safe and Strong Communities Community Grant Fund, the Council are encouraging VCF infrastructure organisations to apply for over £379,000 that will offer financial support across a three-year period.
The funding will allow the successful organisation to offer guidance, leadership, and support to frontline VCF groups, while promoting healthy, active lives for all and tackling inequality by directing resources and expertise where they are needed most.
It will also directly contribute to a key Westmorland and Furness Council Plan priorities to build confident, empowered, and resilient communities, strengthen local representation, and ensure a thriving voluntary sector.
Westmorland and Furness Cabinet Member for Communities, Customer Services, Culture and Communications, Councillor Helen Chaffey, said:
“This new funding recognises the essential contribution of infrastructure organisations to a strong, resilient, and collaborative Voluntary, Community, and Faith sector. These organisations play a vital role in supporting frontline charities, enabling them to thrive and make a real difference in our communities.
“By investing in leadership, capacity building, and partnership working, we are helping to ensure that local voluntary groups have the support they need to deliver valuable services and opportunities for people across Westmorland and Furness. We look forward awarding this funding and seeing the positive impact it will bring over the coming years.”
Applications will be assessed by a panel who will consider how applicants meet the outcomes of the fund.
Applications opened on Wednesday 1 October and will close on Sunday 30 November 2025. Interested organisations can apply using the application form available on the Council website.
For further information and to access the form, view the Grants and Funding page on the Westmorland and Furness Council website.