Somerset Community Foundation

The Foundation funds a broad range of community-focused work including poverty relief, support for children, young people, older people, and families, health and wellbeing (including mental health and disability), rural and social isolation, community cohesion, and environmental sustainability. Their grants support project delivery, small capital improvements, equipment, and capacity building for grassroots organisations. They focus exclusively on the Somerset county area, excluding BANES and North Somerset, and programmes vary by theme or geography, such as the Somerset Crisis and Resilience Alliance which aims to build longer-term financial resilience in neighbourhood areas.

Eligible applicants include UK-registered charities, community groups, community interest companies, and social enterprises operating strictly within Somerset county boundaries. They show a preference for smaller, volunteer-led organisations with a local focus, though medium-sized groups may qualify for some funds. Organisations must demonstrate sound governance, proper safeguarding, and financial management to be considered for support.

They do not fund activities that do not provide public benefit or groups with poor governance standards. This includes organisations unable to demonstrate robust financial controls or appropriate safeguarding measures.

They provide grants for project delivery, capital works, and equipment through various programmes, with a focus on building resilience and capacity in local communities. Unsolicited applications are welcomed, and they blend donor funds with statutory partnerships to support grassroots charitable action.