Neighbourhood Fund
Neighbourhood Fund supports grassroots groups delivering local services that tackle poverty, disadvantage and social issues to improve Dorset residents’ quality of life, with a focus on older people and mental health.
This grant was recently updated
Applications are now due midday, 11 January 2027, instead of midday, 2 July 2026. Previously DCF-funded groups delivering services for at least three years can now seek £10,000 over two years for established services, up from £5,000; other eligibility and timing details also changed.
Funder: Dorset Community Foundation
Due Dates: January 11, 2027, midday (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to £5,000 for one year or £10,000 total over two years; £120,000 anticipated for the round
Summary: Supports grassroots community services addressing social issues, poverty and disadvantage to improve Dorset residents’ quality of life.
Key Information: Groups awarded funding in the previous summer round (August 2026) cannot apply.
Description
Dorset Community Foundation’s Neighbourhood Fund supports local grassroots groups delivering targeted services for people with identified needs. It aims to create positive change and tangible improvements in quality of life for Dorset residents, including diverse communities and people facing discrimination. Both established services and pilots of new activities can receive support.
The fund has particular interests in helping older people lead active, healthy and independent lives, and supporting people experiencing mental health issues. This includes tackling isolation, loneliness, declining health, poor access to services and support for carers. Mental health support can address diagnosed conditions or provide early intervention around low self-esteem, personal aspirations, relationship difficulties and unhealthy coping behaviours. Partnerships, service-user involvement and accessible activities with clear referral routes may receive priority.
