Common Ground Award

£1.7 million of funding from the UK government (MHCLS) which aims to Strengthen Community Cohesion and Resilience. It’s three aims are to:

• identify and reward good practice in building bridging social capital
• invest in the physical spaces and equipment that enables good practice
• build a community of practice, for knowledge sharing across the voluntary and community sector and with government

Grants will be available to voluntary, community and social enterprise sector organisations directly working to bring people together from different backgrounds which are making a positive impact.

Grants will be for up to £10,000 to pay for capital costs to construct new builds or renovate, refurbish or expand facilities, or the purchasing of equipment to deliver services. Funding can also cover essential equipment to deliver services, such as laptops or furniture for the property.

Applicants will be able to set out how capital investment could be scaled up beyond £10,000, which may be considered in exceptional cases – where there is a clearly demonstrated need, supported by a strong application.

Organisations will be notified of their application outcome in January 2026 with funding awarded the same month.

Applications open 13 October 2025 and close 21 November 2025.

Contact CGA@communities.gov.uk for any questions about the grant or to register an interest in applying. Full details at Common Ground Award: prospectus – GOV.UK

 

Voluntary Action Leeds