Small charities and community groups in England will be able to apply for grants of up to £2,500 for projects and activities that reduce loneliness by helping people feel more connected. The funding is being made available through the new £4 million Local Connections Fund which is made up of £2 million from the Government and £2 million from The National Lottery Community Fund. The Local Connections Fund will be split into two rounds of funding – each with its own application window, one in January 2021 and one in the summer 2021. The funding will be available to charities and community groups in England with an annual income of £50,000 or less. This first round will be open for applications on 5 January 2021 and close on 26 January 2021. Click here

Schools, voluntary organisations and charities can apply for grants to help both children and adults suffering severe learning difficulties. The funding is being made available through the Baily Thomas General grants programme and can be used to purchase equipment, support capital works as well as covering project and core costs such as staff costs, general running and office costs. Previous grants have been used to support capital works for residential, nursing and respite care, and schools; employment schemes including woodwork, crafts, printing and horticulture; play schemes and play therapy schemes; day and social activities centres including building costs and running costs; support for families, including respite schemes; independent living schemes; support in the community schemes; and Snoezelen rooms. The next deadline for applications seeking funding in excess of £10,000 is the 1st March 2021. Applications for £10,000 and below can be submitted at any time. Click here

The BBC Children in Need Emergency Essentials Programme which supports children and young people up to the age of 18 living with severe poverty as well as additional pressures such as domestic violence, disability or poor health in the family is currently open for applications. The fund will cover the purchase of critical items such as gas or electric cookers and other essential household items. Applications need to be submitted by a referrer organisation on behalf of the family. The Emergency Essentials Programme is currently operating as normal and we aim to process applications within 10 working days. Funding is also available to families affected by the recent severe flooding. Click here

Crowdfunder and Power to Change are working together to help community businesses develop and adapt services in response to the Covid-19 crisis. Find out more.