Strong start on community grants with increased spending on local projects
- 21/07/2025

Mid Sussex District Council has approved the first round of community grants for 2025-26, awarding £55,000 to local projects that will benefit residents across the district. This marks a strong start to the year and continues the year-on-year increases in spending that support community-led initiatives across Mid Sussex.
The latest grants reflect the Council’s ambition to support more community action across Mid Sussex; in 2023-24, grants of £84,382 were made. The following year, more than £38,000 extra was awarded, bringing the total for 2024-25 to £123,174.
Examples of projects funded so far this year include:
- Specialist physiotherapy for disabled children (pictured, Councillor Chris Hobbs visiting the Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity in Cuckfield)
- Programmes supporting vulnerable people to access counselling
- Upgraded sound equipment for choirs
- Youth confidence-building programmes for girls
- Funding to support conservation volunteering and increased environmental patrol
- A community programme of events for older people
Councillor Anne-Marie Cooke, Cabinet Member for Communities and Communications, said: “It’s really inspiring to see such a wide variety of projects coming forward. Over the past two years, we’ve been able to support more local organisations than before, and we’re proud to continue that strong support this year. I encourage all community groups to consider applying.”
How much can you apply for?
Community groups can apply for grants of up to £5,000 to support projects that benefit Mid Sussex residents.
Who can apply?
You can apply if:
- Your project will directly benefit residents of Mid Sussex
- You are properly formed with a governing document and a bank account
- Your organisation’s services are open to all, with an equal opportunities policy
- Your project meets at least one of the Council’s priority areas
The community grants programme runs across three funding windows this year. Applications for the second round open on Monday 14 July and close on 6 October, with decisions expected at the November Cabinet meeting.
For more information and to apply, visit: www.midsussex.gov.uk/business-licensing/community-grants