Stratford-on-Avon District Council's Cabinet approves £350,000 Community Grant Scheme

Stratford-on-Avon District Council's Cabinet has today, Monday 6 October, approved a new £350,000 Community Grant Scheme aimed at enhancing community infrastructure across the District.

The scheme, developed in collaboration with local and regional partners, will support capital projects that improve accessibility, resilience, and diversity in community spaces.

The grant programme is designed to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE and VJ Days, with a vision to transform community spaces into living memorials that honour the sacrifice and spirit of past generations. It will also promote unity, remembrance, and community cohesion.

Key features of the scheme:

• Funding allocation: £50,000 for small grants (£5,000 - £20,000) and £300,000 for large grants (£20,001 - £100,000).
• Eligible applicants: Town and Parish Councils, registered charities, PTAs, community interest companies (CICs), and similar non-profit entities.
• Project types: Structural repairs, accessibility improvements, facility upgrades, outdoor space enhancements, and new community asset creation.

Eligible projects may include:

• External structural repairs to community buildings.
• Refurbishment or installation of kitchen and bathroom facilities.
• Building extensions to improve internal space.
• Accessibility improvements such as wheelchair access, handrails, and raised flower beds.
• Enhancements to play areas, recreation grounds, allotments, orchards, and leisure facilities.
• Creation of new community assets.

Councillor Liz Coles, Housing and Customer Services Portfolio Holder said: "This scheme is a powerful opportunity to invest in the heart of our communities, ensuring that vital spaces remain accessible, inclusive, and resilient for future generations. It's also a meaningful way to honour the legacy of those who served during WWII."  

The District Council will host workshops to guide potential applicants through the process, with support from Warwickshire CAVA and other partners. Projects will be assessed by a dedicated panel using a robust scoring system that prioritises community impact, deliverability and location of the project.  

For more information, including eligibility criteria and application guidance, please visit the Community Grant Scheme 2025 | Stratford-on-Avon District Council  or contact the Communities and Social Inclusion Team on socialinclusion@stratford-dc.gov.uk

Application timeline:

• Launch: Late October to 11 November 2025
• Briefing sessions: Mid-November 2025
• Application deadlines: 31 January 2026 (small grants), 27 February 2026 (large grants)
• Awards announced: May to June 2026, aligned with Armed Forces Day
• Project delivery: April 2026 to March 2027