Bringing communities together: new grant backs local ideas

West Oxfordshire District Council is pleased to announce the upcoming launch of the Community Activity Grant (CAG) for 2025–2026, offering £22,000 in funding to support local projects that strengthen community ties and promote collective action.

Councillor Rachel Crouch, Executive Member for Stronger Healthy Communities, said:“People in our towns and villages know what’s needed in their communities better than anyone. This year’s Community Activity Grant is focused on ‘Community Action’ and is here to support those local champions. People with great ideas who want to bring neighbours together, help others feel less alone and take care of the places they love.

“With more than one in five residents over the age of 65, loneliness is a real concern for many. We’ve also heard from young people who say there’s not much to do nearby, and that cost and transport can get in the way.

“This funding is about removing those barriers and giving people the support they need to make things happen. Whether you’re part of a local group, a charity or just getting started with help from a partner, we’d love to hear your ideas. It’s about doing something good for your area and the people around you.”

To help bring these ideas to life, the council is offering one-off grants of between £500 and £1,000 to voluntary groups, charities and new community-led projects. Informal groups are also welcome to apply, as long as they are working in partnership with an established organisation acting as the lead applicant.

The grant supports activities that bring people together and reduce isolation, encourage pride in local places, and create welcoming communities where everyone feels they belong. It also aims to help residents facing barriers to participation, such as age, disability, background or financial pressure, and improve access to services and opportunities for those affected by the cost of living crisis.

Applications for the Community Action Grant (CAG) will open on Tuesday 1 July and close on Tuesday 12 August. Details on how to apply will soon be published on the West Oxfordshire District Council website.

If you have any questions about the scheme or want to explore whether your idea is eligible, contact Community Funding Officer Lucy Empson at West Oxfordshire District Council by emailing wodc.grants@westoxon.gov.uk or calling 01993 861189.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for larger-scale funding for a community project, you’re invited to a Project Creator Workshop on Wednesday 2 July, 1 - 2pm. The session will introduce Westhive, our community crowdfunding platform designed to help locally-led ideas gain support and attract wider funding.

Contact Information

West Oxfordshire District Council Communications Team

communications@westoxon.gov.uk