Community Micro Grants: Up to £250 for Local Ideas
Do you have an idea that could bring people together, improve wellbeing or make a positive difference in your community? The Community Micro Grants Scheme offers grants of up to £250 to help residents turn their ideas into reality.
The scheme is open to individuals, groups of friends, resident-led groups and small community organisations across Herefordshire. Funding can be used to start a new community project or support an existing one, helping with costs such as venue hire, equipment, training or promotion.
Whether it’s a coffee morning, wellbeing activity, community event, walking group or another idea that helps connect people and strengthen local communities, the Micro Grants Scheme could provide the boost you need to get started.
Applications are designed to be simple and accessible, with support available to help develop your idea and complete the application process. For more information and to apply, visit the online form.
A Revitalised Community Space for Ledbury
A community space in Ledbury has been transformed into a welcoming, accessible hub for local groups, services and residents thanks to a £225,000 Community Spaces Improvement Grant.
Ledbury Food Bank took over the building in 2022 and has since carried out extensive refurbishment works, including new heating, improved insulation, upgraded facilities, full disabled access and more. The transformed venue now provides flexible space for community organisations, support services and local activities.
Mark Lister said the project was driven by a desire to create a shared community asset that could benefit people across Herefordshire.
“We have completely refurbished the place and it is now available for any community group to use, either by hiring the whole building or an individual room,” said Mark.
The space is already being used by a growing range of organisations and services, helping residents access support locally while creating opportunities for collaboration between community groups.
“The wider the offer we can create in one space, the resulting benefits are greater than the sum of their parts,” Mark added.
Among the organisations making use of the facility is the Herefordshire Prostate Cancer Support Group (HPCSG), which provides information, peer support and awareness raising for men and families affected by prostate cancer across the county.
The group works closely with local health services and community partners, helping people access support closer to home.
Peter McCann, Chair of HPCSG, said having access to a comfortable and private community venue is invaluable.
“One in ten men with prostate cancer will often need additional emotional support, so this is a great facility to use because of the privacy it offers,” he said.
The group continues to expand its reach across Herefordshire, supporting men and their families while raising awareness of prostate cancer in communities across the county.
“We’re building awareness and we’re providing support,” said Peter. “It’s very important for the families, very important for the children.”
Ledbury Food Bank’s community space continues to grow, with plans for an online booking system and new information displays to help visitors discover local services, support and opportunities in their area.
By bringing together community groups, charities and services under one roof, the space is helping people access the support they need while strengthening community connections across Ledbury and beyond.
Help with the cost of living: Crisis and Resilience Fund
The Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) is available to support residents in Herefordshire who are struggling with the cost of living or facing unexpected financial difficulties.
The CRF offers practical support at times of crisis, such as help with food, energy costs or other essential household needs. It’s also designed to support people longer term, helping build financial confidence and stability through access to advice, guidance and local services.
In Herefordshire, support is available through a range of options, including:
- Crisis payments for urgent or unexpected situations
- Housing support, such as help with rent or deposits
- Support for heating oil and LPG costs
- Access to advice and services to improve financial resilience
We know many people who could benefit from this support may not be aware it exists. As trusted local partners, you play a key role in helping residents access the help they need. We’d encourage you to share this information through your networks, signpost individuals who may be struggling and use this support as part of your wider conversations with residents.
To find out more about the Crisis and Resilience Fund and how to apply, visit the Talk Community Directory.
Sasha Foundation Grants
Charitable organisations supporting young people affected by mental health issues, particularly depression, or drug misuse can apply for funding from the Sasha Foundation. Grants are typically up to £10,000 and can support running costs, salaries, projects, equipment and capital works, provided they make up no more than 50% of the total project cost. Match funding is required.
Priority is given to grassroots community groups and small-to-medium-sized voluntary organisations. Applicants must have a governing document, a management committee of at least three unrelated people, and a bank account in the organisation’s name.
The next application deadline is 1 October 2026. Further information and application forms are available from the Sasha Foundation website.
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Free Samaritans Suicide in the Media Advice Sessions
People living or working in Herefordshire and Worcestershire can now access free Suicide in the Media Advice Sessions delivered by Samaritans and funded through the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Suicide Prevention Programme. The sessions will provide practical guidance on how to communicate about suicide safely and responsibly, including the use of positive storytelling to support prevention efforts.
The training is open to anyone who may communicate publicly about suicide, including voluntary and community organisations, workplace leads, campaign organisers and social media users. No communications or media experience is required.
The first online session takes place on Wednesday 19 August, 11am to 12pm, with a second session planned for Wednesday 27 January, 11am to 12pm. Places are unlimited, and those interested in attending the August session can register using the booking form.
Funding for Organisations Supporting the Army Community
The Army Benevolent Fund is offering grants to charities and community interest companies that support serving soldiers, veterans and their immediate families. Funding is available for projects and activities that benefit the Army community, with a focus on independent living, elderly care, education and employability, mental fitness, families and housing.
There is no set minimum or maximum grant amount, although awards to new partner organisations are typically under £20,000. The Fund will contribute towards project costs rather than providing full cost recovery, so applicants will need to demonstrate how any remaining costs will be met.
Priority is given to grassroots organisations working directly with beneficiaries. The next application window for organisations that have received Army Benevolent Fund support within the last two years is 25 August to 6 October 2026, with applications considered in November 2026. Organisations not funded in the last two years should contact the Fund before applying.
Further information and application forms are available on the Army Benevolent Fund website.
What’s new on the directory?
The Talk Community Directory is home to hundreds of Herefordshire-based services and events. Some of this month’s newest additions include:
Neurodivergent Women’s Circle Course
The Cracked Slipper Company – The Masked Actor Summer Workshops
FREE Afternoon Tea @ Holme Lacy Village Hall
Coffee Morning @ Holme Lacy Village Hall
Citizens Advice Herefordshire Drop in Advice
Ruth Caswell Play and Creative Arts Therapy
BINGO night – Holme Lacy Village Hall