Funding & Training Focus - 01 October

Funding season in full swing

If there’s one thing I’ve learned during my time in Renfrewshire, it’s that community groups never sit still for long, and neither does the funding world. One minute it’s sports clubs getting kitted out, the next it’s trees, arts, or projects tackling some of the toughest challenges in our communities.

This week’s round-up has a bit of everything: micro-grants to test a spark of an idea, bigger pots for long-term projects, and even funds to help keep people connected over the winter months. Think of it as a funding buffet, all you need is a plate and a bit of imagination.

As always, if you spot something that looks like it could work for your group but want to talk it through first, drop me a line at mwollberg@engagerenfrewshire.com

 

Funding

• Arts and music
• Community Projects
• Environment, Nature and Climate Change
• Housing and Homelessness
• Miscellaneous
• Older Adults
• Racial Equity
• Support for women and girls
• Vulnerable People
• Young People

Events/Training

• Young People and Vaping Awareness Session - 09 October
• Mediator and Mediation Skills Training course
• Families Outside CPD Training
• Mentally Healthy Workplaces: Line Manager Training
• Money and Debt Advice Custom Award SCQF Level 7
• No Barriers Here - Facilitator Training

Creative Education, Creative Communities, and Creative Individuals
Applications are open for the Hugo Burge Foundation’s 2025 grants programme, which offers up to £15,000 for projects promoting creativity, community engagement, and artistic development across the UK. The fund supports three strands: Creative Education, which provides schools, charities, and cultural organisations with resources to deliver opportunities for young people; Creative Communities, which enables festivals and groups to use arts and culture to strengthen local life; and Creative Individuals, offering up to £5,000 for Scotland-based artists, writers, and craftspeople to develop specific projects. Projects under £10,000 may be fully funded, while larger applications must secure at least 30% of costs elsewhere. The deadline for the next funding round is 30 September 2025, under the Hugo Burge Foundation Grants Programme. Find out more
 

Arts-Based Learning Fund
Arts organisations and charities working with schools, colleges and other formal education settings can now apply for grants of £30,000 to £300,000 to deliver high-quality arts-based learning projects lasting two to four years. The funding aims to improve the lives and achievements of children and young people experiencing inequality, with priorities including support for disadvantaged pupils, expanding access to arts-based teaching in underserved schools, addressing inclusion and racism, developing digital and blended learning, and embedding arts in curricula for the long term. Applications must be made in partnership with schools or other formal education settings, and the fund particularly welcomes organisations led by those most affected by oppression. Applications are accepted year-round. The scheme is run by the Paul Hamlyn Foundation through its Arts-based Learning Fund. Find out more

Winter Connections fund
Renfrewshire Council’s Winter Connections programme is now open for applications.
You can apply for funding here.  Apply for the Winter Connections Fund | Renfrewshire Council
Please ensure that you read the guidance carefully before you apply. We ask that you provide information on a specific activity that you will deliver as part of your programme. There is no closing date for this funding as it will be allocated on a rolling basis. The fund will remain open until the available funding has been used. We don’t know what the demand for this fund will be, so advise that you apply as early as possible. If you have any questions about the funding or any issues with the online application process, please email at andrena.faulkner@renfrewshire.gov.uk


CASH4CLUBS 2026 
Cash4Clubs is a small grants scheme for community sports clubs and organisations to use as they see fit, whether that's to purchase new equipment, gain coaching qualifications or invest in the sustainability of their club. Cash4Clubs, funded by Flutter UKI, has boosted their 2026 funding to £500,000 to help 250 grassroots sports and community clubs across Ireland and the UK. In partnership with leading UK charity Sported, these small grants of £2,000 to clubs and organisations that help keep adults engaged with sport, particularly in areas that need it most. Closing date: Monday 08 December 2025 Find out more


Projects that aim to spark new ideas and innovative approaches to community engagement with heritage
Seed Corn Grants offer between £500 and £5,000 to support early-stage, exploratory projects that spark new ideas and approaches to community engagement with heritage. These grants are designed for community groups, Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums (GLAM) or other heritage organisations looking to test concepts, build partnerships, or pilot activities. Seed Corn Grants are designed to be flexible and easy to access, making it simple for anyone to join the Community Hub programme. They encourage new ideas and inclusivity right from the start. Find out more


SafeDeposits Scotland Community Fund
SafeDeposits Scotland, the country’s leading tenancy deposit protection scheme, has introduced a Community Fund designed to provide small grants to projects enhancing communities across Scotland.
The SafeDeposits Scotland Community Fund will award grants to organisations who commit to deliver a project that meets at least one of five criteria, namely:

• Sustainability and the environment
• Employability and career skills
• Social inclusion
• Technology and digital inclusion
• Improving the local community

They can support a wide range of projects from enhancing play areas to planting trees, and from providing isolated individuals with social opportunities and helping young people prepare for work. Next deadline: 28 Nov 2025 Find out more
 

Free Trees for Schools & Community Groups
Schools, clubs and community groups across the UK can now apply for free tree packs from the Woodland Trust to encourage nature recovery and community wellbeing. Eligible applicants include schools, sports clubs, faith groups, Scouts and Guides, local councils and residents’ associations, with packs of 15, 30, 105 or 420 saplings available for delivery in March 2026. Trees are UK- and Ireland-sourced, and guidance on planting and aftercare is provided, though sapling protection is not included. Applicants must secure landowner permission and provide a six-digit grid reference of the planting site. The funding is being made available through the Woodland Trust’s Free Trees for Schools & Community Groups programme. Applications are expected to close in January 2026. Find out more
 

Grants of up to £1,500 Available for Community Projects Using Data to Improve Health
Community groups across the UK can apply for grants of £500 to £1,500 to deliver projects that show how data can improve health and wellbeing. To be eligible, organisations must work with under-served groups, including people from low-income or minority ethnic backgrounds, rural residents, young people aged 11–25, adults over 65 in deprived areas, and those experiencing digital exclusion. Funding can support a wide range of activities, from step challenges and nature walks exploring health statistics to arts projects, surveys, and wellbeing journals. Projects must be inclusive, community-led, and designed to make data more accessible. The programme is funded by Health Data Research UK (HDR UK) through its Take the Lead Community Grants. The closing date for applications is 13 October 2025. Find out more
 

Funding for Projects that Have a Positive Impact on Communities, People or the Environment
The Matthew Good Foundation has opened the next round of its Grants for Good Fund. The aim is to support small charities, not-for-profit groups, and social entrepreneurs passionate about making a difference for people, their communities, and the environment. The Fund will share £15,000 between five shortlisted projects every three months, which will be voted for by John Good Group employees. The project that receives the most votes will receive a grant of £5,000, second place £3,500, third place £2,500, and fourth and fifth place, both receiving £2,000. As well as established projects and charities, the Foundation wants to hear from people with innovative ideas that need some funding to get their projects up and running. To be eligible, applicants must have had an income of less than £50,000 in the last 12 months. Funding is awarded every three months and the next deadline for the next funding round is the 15 December 2025. Find out more
 

New Funding to Boost Outdoor Play in Deprived Areas
Registered Charities can apply for grants of up to £20,000 to deliver outdoor play opportunities that improve the health and wellbeing of children and families in Scotland’s most disadvantaged areas. Inspiring Scotland’s Outdoor Community Play Main Grants Fund 2026-28 will support free, child-led outdoor play projects that help children and families connect with their local outdoor spaces through play, using the Play Ranger model. Alongside funding, organisations will receive capacity-building support and opportunities to share and learn from other organisations. Funding can cover staffing, project costs, equipment, materials, resources, session food or snacks, and up to 10% of project management costs. Partnership applications are welcome. Applications close at 12pm on the 10 October 2025, with successful projects to run between the 01 April 2026 and 31 March 2028. Find out more

New Grants Programme Launched to Boost Nature Recovery
Small charities and not-for-profit groups in the UK can now apply for grants of up to £25,000 to deliver projects that restore nature, improve access to green spaces and help communities respond to the climate emergency. The grants are available to organisations with an annual income between £10,000 and £1 million that have been operating for at least 12 months. Eligible activities include habitat creation, species protection, recycling initiatives, litter picks, beach cleans and sustainable transport projects, with priority given to groups showing strong community involvement and lasting environmental impact. Applications open on 17 September 2025 and close in October 2025. Funding is provided through the Green Communities Grants programme, which is managed by The Wildlife Trusts. Find out more

Funding to Help Vulnerable People with their Housing Needs
The Leeds Building Society Charitable Foundation is inviting applications for projects that assist vulnerable individuals in need of a secure and safe home. UK-registered charities with an annual turnover of less than £1 million can apply for capital funding of up to £1,000 to help cover the costs of essential items and equipment that support people experiencing homelessness. The funding is intended for projects that align with the Foundation's new purpose and one or more of the following themes: financial stress; security and refuge; quality and suitability of housing; and health and well-being support. Applications are reviewed every quarter. The next application deadline is 03 November 2025. Find out more

Grants of up to £50,000 Available for Local Road Safety Projects
Local authorities, and other not for profit organisations can apply for funding of between £10,000 and £50,000 to support projects that reduce road casualties and make UK roads safer. Projects can run for up to two years and must demonstrate partnership working, clear objectives, measurable outcomes, and evidence of need, with additional cash or in-kind support encouraged. Previous projects have included education and training programmes, enforcement initiatives, technology trials and community-led safety interventions. Expressions of Interest must be submitted by 5pm on 29 October 2025. The scheme is run by the Road Safety Trust through its Small Grants Programme. Find out more
 

Funding to Support Migrant Justice
The Paul Hamlyn Foundation is making grants of up to £60,000 per year (over 3 to 5 years) available to support not-for-profit organisations working towards migrant justice in the UK. The Migration Fund aims to support organisations to build on their services to strengthen relationships with migrants and diaspora communities, and help them plan for positive change. The Foundation will consider applications for core funding and funding dedicated to specific programmes and partnerships. Potential applicants need to contact the Foundation to discuss ideas before submitting applications related to this focus area. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Find out more

Festive Grants Up to £750 Available for Groups Supporting Older People in Need
Small charities and constituted community groups can apply for grants up to £750 for festive activities that create social connection for people aged 65+. The programme prioritises communities with the highest levels of income deprivation and loneliness among older people England, Scotland and Wales. The type of activities that could be supported include community festive meals, outings befriending activities and the delivery of Christmas care packages, etc. The funding is being made available through the McCarthy Stone Foundation, Festive Connections Grants Programme 2025 and the application deadline is 5pm on 3 October 2025. Find out more

 

Racial Equity

The Corra Racial Equity Fund provides unrestricted funding to organisations based in and working in Scotland that are led by, and working with, people from Black and racially minoritised backgrounds. The Corra Racial Equity Fund is open to charities and registered not-for-profit organisations with an annual income of £250,000 or less. Organisations can apply for funding of up to £50,000 across five years (no more than £10,000 in any one year). Priority to address needs identified by people with lived experience. The closing date for applications is Wednesday 29 October at midday. Find out more

Grants Available to Support Vulnerable Young Women and Girls at Risk of Entering the Criminal Justice System
UK charities and not-for-profit organisations with annual incomes under £50,000 can now apply for grants of up to £10,000 to deliver programmes tackling reoffending and preventing first-time offences among young women and girls at risk of entering the criminal justice system. Eligible groups must be women-led, serving at least 100% female beneficiaries, and demonstrate expertise in trauma-informed, gender-specific support. The funding is being made available through the Triangle Trust's small grants programme, and applications are open until midnight on 21 October 2025. Find out more

The Schroder Charity Trust to Re-Open Grants Programme
Following a review of its grant-making process, the Schroder Charity Trust has announced that it will begin accepting applications from the 1st October 2025. The Trust will fund initiatives that enable children and young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds to thrive in education and employment. It will also support projects that strengthen communities through services and opportunities which improve the lives of vulnerable and disadvantaged people across the UK. Grants of up to £5,000 are typically awarded, and funding may be used towards either core or project costs. Applications are accepted from UK-registered charities with an annual income between £150,000 and £1 million. This funding round will close on 30 November 2025, with decisions expected within four months. Find out more

Grants of up to £35,000 Available for Short Breaks Projects for Disabled Young People
A £1.7 million fund is available for third-sector organisations in Scotland to develop and deliver short breaks projects for disabled children and young people (aged 20 and under) and their carers. The fund, made available through Shared Care Scotland’s Better Breaks grant, aims to provide respite from their normal routine. Grants of up to £35,000 are available (for unincorporated organisations, the maximum grant available is £10,000). Short breaks projects can include breaks away, days out, and/or shorter, regular activities and sessions, benefiting disabled children, young people, and their families. Applications must be submitted by 5pm on 3 November 2025. Find out more
 

Grants of up to £1,000 Available for Young People to Improve Local Green Spaces
Applications are open for projects that help young people lead initiatives that promote local biodiversity awareness or improve access to nature and local green spaces. Past projects supported have ranged from school festivals and biodiversity murals to community gardens and guided nature walks. Awards of up to £1,000 are available to cover costs such as materials, room hire, publicity, speakers, training, transport and project-specific staff. The scheme is aimed at benefiting groups of young people, typically aged 16 or under, with proposals expected to be youth-led and supported by schools, home educators, community organisations, small charities or student groups. Funding is provided by the Linnean Society of London under its Our Local Nature Grant Scheme, now in its sixth year. The closing date for applications is midnight on the 25 October 2025. Decisions announced in December. Successful projects will begin in January 2026 and conclude by June. Find out more

Young People and Vaping Awareness Session - 09 October

Join us for an interactive awareness session designed to support staff and volunteers who work with children and young people in addressing the growing issue of vaping among young people.

This training will:

• Provide up-to-date information on vaping trends and use among young people
• Increase knowledge and confidence to discuss the health and environmental impacts of vaping
• Share resources and signpost where to find further information and support

Book here


Mediator and Mediation Skills Training course, accredited by Scottish Mediation.
Starts 20 October 2025
Blended learning: online + in-person
Practical skills, mock mediations, certification
£800 + VAT (professionals) | £750 + VAT (voluntary sector/students)
 A chance to build conflict resolution skills, strengthen practice, and take a step towards mediator accreditation. 
Click here for more details and how to enrol: https://www.scottishconflictresolution.org.uk/blog/our-new-mediator-and-mediation-skills-training-course 



Families Outside CPD Training
22 October 2025
Our training is suitable for professionals from any sector who want to feel more confident when supporting families affected by imprisonment in their own role. Previous sessions have been well attended by education professionals, social workers and those in the third sector.  The training is designed to be interactive, providing opportunities for participants to connect with others during breakout room activities and whole group discussions. Places are priced at £55 per person per session. Find out more


Mentally Healthy Workplaces: Line Manager Training
23rd October 2025 Time: 0915 to 1600
Venue: Training Room D, 3rd Floor Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley, PA1 1AX
Renfrewshire HSCP are pleased to announce we are running a session of the popular, interactive course which has a mix of slides, videos and group discussion… so there’s something to suit everyone's learning style! The way people are managed on a day-to-day basis is central to their mental wellbeing and engagement, as well as trust in their employer. A supportive manager can be crucial in supporting wellbeing, spotting early signs of distress and initiating early intervention. To apply for a place please email stating your name, post title and place of work to either : chooselife.sw@renfrewshire.gov.uk or HealthImprovement.Renfrewshire@ggc.scot.nhs.uk

Money and Debt Advice Custom Award SCQF Level 7
28 October 2025 (subject to change)
The course can be attended either online over teams or alternatively face to face in our training academy.
Course Duration: 120 hours (can either be done in half days or full days, suggested one half day or full day per week)
Course Description: Learn: Best practices in financial advisory and strategies for supporting clients in debt.  Gain: A recognised award that supports further qualifications and career growth.  Ideal for: Beginners in debt advice or professionals handling client interactions. Book here


No Barriers Here Facilitator Training – Scotland
24 November 2025
Are you a health or social care professional or a community worker supporting people at the end of life, or working in the space of death, dying and grief? Do you feel confident supporting people to plan for their future care, especially when traditional approaches aren’t always inclusive or accessible?  In partnership with Marie Curie UK Good Life Good Death Good Grief and The Mary Stevens Hospice we are delighted to invite colleagues across Scotland to join us on Monday 24th November 2025 for No Barriers Here Facilitator Training. To register or for further information, please visit: https://www.nobarriershere.org/facilitator-training/training-events/