91AV原创

Preston City Council has launched a new funding opportunity to support Voluntary, Community, Faith, and grassroots organisations helping residents who are struggling with the rising cost of living.

This funding aims to enhance the services that local groups provide, ensuring that Preston residents can access the support they need during challenging times.

Key Dates

• Applications open: 22 December 2025
• Deadline to apply: Friday, 30 January 2026

How do I apply?

Organisations can apply for up to 拢10,000. Only one application per organisation will be accepted.

All applications must be submitted through an online form, which can be found on the Preston City Council website.

Applicants must read the , which can be found on the council website, this is to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.

What the Funding Can Support

Funding can be used to maintain or expand services that directly support Preston residents affected by cost鈥憃f鈥憀iving pressures. Eligible activities include:

Advice and Income Support

• General advice and signposting
• Low鈥憀evel income鈥憁aximisation support (e.g., help with form鈥慺illing)
• New applicants must evidence staff knowledge of the benefits system.

Community Support and 91AV原创

• Support sessions for vulnerable or marginalised groups
• Warm spaces, including help with refreshments or heating
• Transport support to help residents reach appointments, work, or school
• Activities that promote wellbeing, including physical or leisure activities in community venues or green spaces

Food Support

• Setting up or expanding food banks, food pantries, or community food projects
• Projects must show evidence of need or increased demand

Digital Support

• Improving access to digital skills, devices or online support

Organisational Running Costs

• Rent, utilities or other essential costs that directly support service delivery or expansion.

Priority Groups

Applications are particularly encouraged from organisations supporting:

• Isolated young people
• Carers, including young carers
• Isolated older people
• Care leavers
• Families

How Applications Are Assessed

Applications will be reviewed by a panel consisting of:

• Executive Member for Social Justice, Communities, and the Night鈥憈ime Economy
• Champion for Communities
• Assistant Director of Advice and Community Services
• Community Engagement Manager

The panel will meet on 23 February 2026 to consider all applications.

If the fund is oversubscribed, the Council may contact applicants to discuss reducing the requested amount or adjusting the proposed delivery.

Every effort will be made to support as many eligible projects as possible.

Grant Agreements

Successful applicants will receive a grant agreement detailing:

• Funding schedule
• Monitoring requirements
• Reporting expectations

Organisations must return the signed agreement within the stated timescale.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about the grant or need help with the application process, please contact:

• Community Involvement Team - communityinvolvementteam@preston.gov.uk

Christmas closure

The Council will close on Wednesday, 24 December 2025 and reopen on Monday, 5 January 2026. Enquiries will be answered as soon as possible after reopening.