Council launches four new community grants to empower local change

Cheshire East Council has announced the launch of four new community grant programmes for 2025–2026, designed to empower local organisations, strengthen neighbourhoods, and support residents through challenging times.

As part of the council’s ongoing commitment to the Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector, these grants will help pilot innovative solutions, build resilience, and ensure that support reaches those who need it most. 
 
The Enabling Communities Community Grants Programme is at the heart of the council’s transformation plan—focusing on early support, healthy neighbourhoods, and collaborative partnerships. Alongside this, three targeted funds will address digital inclusion, cost-of-living pressures, and health inequalities. 
 
Councillor David Jefferay, Cheshire East Council’s communities committee chair, said: 

“We know that the strength of our communities lies in the people and organisations working tirelessly to support others.

“These grants are about enabling that work to flourish—whether it’s helping a family through a tough winter, improving digital access in a rural village hall, or supporting someone to live independently for longer.

“We’re proud to stand alongside our VCFSE partners to build a fairer, healthier, and more connected Cheshire East.” 
 
The four grant programmes include:

Cost of Living Community Response Fund 

Funded by the Household Support Fund, this grant supports projects that tackle poverty, build local resilience, and reduce reliance on food banks. Grants up to £10,000. 
 
Digital Communities Fund 

Backed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, this capital grant supports digital infrastructure improvements in community facilities. Grants up to £7,000. 
 
Enabling Prosperity and Wellbeing in Cheshire East Fund 

Also funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, this grant supports projects that promote health, wellbeing, sustainability, and community capacity. Grants up to £10,000. 
 
Healthy Neighbourhoods Fund 

Funded by the Integrated Care Board, this grant supports community-based health interventions and aims to reduce hospital admissions. Grants up to £15,000. 

To help organisations learn more and apply, the Community Grants team will host three online information sessions via Microsoft Teams: 

• Tuesday 8 July 2025, 10:30–12:00 
• Tuesday 15 July 2025, 10:30–12:00 
• Thursday 17 July 2025, 10:30–12:00 

To register, email: 

communitygrants2@cheshireeast.gov.uk

For more information, eligibility criteria, and how to apply for any of the grants, visit: 

Cheshire East Council Community Grants web page 

...or contact the Community Grants team.