£1.5 million community uplift grant in Wales

The Welsh government’s £1.5 Child Poverty Innovation and Supporting Communities Grant is open for applications, which will fund organisations to improve collaborative working arrangements to address child poverty.

With applications set to close on 13th April, public and third sector organisations can apply for up to £25,000 for community and local projects, or up to £125,000 for regional initiatives spanning multiple local authorities.

Funding like this has the potential to transform communities where families can shape their own services. For example, in Rhondda Cynon Taf, the Trivallis housing association’s ‘Rise Strong’ project has collaborated with families who know best what they need and how it should be delivered.

Residents of Cae Fardre, who previously had no community space, created a hub for families to access practical support such as budget cooking classes and regular social activities.

The cabinet secretary for social justice, Jane Hutt, said: “This funding puts resources directly where they make the greatest difference to families on lower incomes. We’re determined to do all we can to prevent people from going into poverty and help those who need support the most.

“Since 2022, we’ve invested nearly £5 billion in schemes which help people access their entitlements and help put money back into people’s pockets by boosting incomes and strengthening financial support. Our Child Poverty Strategy sets out actions to tackle poverty, including delivering more community-based opportunities for play, sports, youth activities and access to arts and culture for children and families.