Mid Sussex District Council awards community grants to five local projects making a difference across the district

Mid Sussex District Council has awarded funding through its community grants programme to support five local organisations delivering projects that will benefit residents, strengthen communities and create new opportunities for people across the district. 

The latest grants have been awarded to 1st East Grinstead Scout Group, Haywards Heath 10th Brownies, Inkpots Youth Mentoring, Meridian FM Radio, and The Kindness Cooperation CIC. Funding will help improve local facilities and equipment, provide learning and development opportunities for young people, deliver peer mentoring programmes, create volunteering opportunities, and strengthen connections between generations through community storytelling initiatives. 

Four of the applicants are receiving community grant funding for the first time, highlighting the Council's commitment to investing in new ideas and helping a diverse range of local organisations make a positive impact in their communities. 

Funding awarded to Inkpots Youth Mentoring will help to  deliver a peer mentoring project for Year 6 pupils, while 1st East Grinstead Scout Group will use its grant to purchase new equipment and complete the transformation of the Scout Hall into a fully functional, welcoming and inclusive community space. 

Since 2015, the community grants programme has awarded over £936,482 to support a range of activities delivered by local groups, helping to improve access to sport, recreation, wellbeing and social opportunities for Mid Sussex residents.    

Councillor Anne-Marie Cooke, Cabinet Member for Communities and Communications said: “Our community grants programme is all about supporting the organisations and volunteers who make a positive difference across Mid Sussex.” 

“These projects are helping to create new opportunities for residents, help people develop skills and confidence, strengthen community connections, and improve local facilities that can be enjoyed for years to come. We’re proud to support these community organisations that provide real, tangible benefits to local people.” 

Applying for a community grant 

If you have an idea for a local project that could benefit residents, a Mid Sussex Community Grant could help turn your idea into reality. 

Applications for the Autumn 2026 round of community grants are now open and close on Thursday 24 September. 

The Council’s Communities team welcomes enquiries from individuals and organisations interested in making a positive difference in Mid Sussex. The team are available for informal conversations to provide guidance, advice and support for anyone considering an application. 

To get in touch, please contact the Communities team before submitting an application on communities@midsussex.gov.uk or by phoning 01444 47 73 16. 

To find out more information, including the funding guidelines and eligibility criteria, visit Community Grants - Mid Sussex District Council 

ENDS