Launch of second phase of cost of living community grant

West Oxfordshire District Council is relaunching its Community Activity Grant scheme, aimed at providing support to not-for-profit community groups in West Oxfordshire who are working to support residents through the ongoing cost of living crisis.

Cllr Joy Aitman, Executive Member for Stronger Healthy Communities said, "We are excited to launch this scheme to empower and uplift our West Oxfordshire community.

"We are deeply committed to improving the quality of life for all our residents, and through these grants, we aim to provide much-needed support to vital community groups, helping them to address the challenges faced by our residents. 

“Our aim is to bring people together and build a stronger West Oxfordshire during these incredibly challenging times.”

Applications for the second phase of the scheme will open on 12 June and will address the pressing needs of residents most affected by the cost of living crisis, promoting community well-being and social connection.

The grant scheme has two different funding options that are designed to help specific community needs. Lot 1 will address food insecurity and related issues. Community groups like Foodbanks, Larders, and Fridges can apply for a grant of up to £2,500 to help cover costs and sustain services, ensuring that essential food support reaches the people who need it the most.

Lot 2 will fund activities that address the challenges posed by the cost of living whether that be covering the cost of providing a ‘Warm welcome’ activity, cooking a monthly community lunch, providing advice or information or hiring a space to provide a homework club. Grants of up to £1,000 are available.

Decisions about which organisations receive the grants will be made based on clear principles and criteria. Factors taken into account include how the grant will help organisations address the emerging needs caused by the cost of living crisis, the number of residents who will benefit, the vulnerability of those who will benefit, collaboration with other organisations, and the potential for long-lasting effects.

The grant scheme welcomes applications from community-focused organisations such as town and parish councils, village hall committees, voluntary sector groups, charitable groups, faith groups, and new/informal groups partnering with formal organisations. Applicants must demonstrate alignment with the Council's priorities and supply specified documentation showing evidence of good governance. 

The safety and well-being of residents is the Council’s priority, and applicants are required to outline their safeguarding approach to ensure the protection of participants, staff, and volunteers. 

The grant scheme will only consider activity undertaken within West Oxfordshire. To apply or for more information, please visit https://www.westoxon.gov.uk/communitygrants/