Community and not-for-profit organisations in Newton-le-Willows can now apply for grants of up to £5,000 through a new fund launched by the Newton-le-Willows Neighbourhood Board.
The “Community Pot” forms part of the wider Pride in Place programme, which will see £20 million invested in the town over the next ten years. It will distribute £250,000 over four years, with £25,000 available this financial year.
Two levels of funding are available. Micro grants of between £500 and £1,000 are designed to support the day-to-day running of projects – covering things like training, group activities, events and running costs. ‘Grow grants’ of between £1,000 and £5,000 are aimed at organisations purchasing, renovating or improving physical assets that serve the local area.
To be eligible, organisations must be registered community organisations, community interest companies or not-for-profit organisations based in or delivering activities in Newton-le-Willows.
Chris Hickey, chair of the Newton-le-Willows Neighbourhood Board, said: “As a Board we are passionate about delivering real lasting change for the people of Newton-le-Willows. We know that there are many amazing groups already delivering community focused initiatives in the area and the Community Pot is an opportunity for us to support, sustain and expand these activities.
“This is about working together to ensure that all areas of Newton-le-Willows are feeling the benefits of the Pride in Place funding and that those benefits reach all of our residents.”
Anyone interested in finding out more can attend a drop-in session on Monday, 8 June at Newton-le-Willows Library, Crow Lane East, WA12 9TU, from 5-6.30pm. Members of the project team will be on hand to answer questions about the Community Pot, eligibility and how to apply.
The first round of bidding is now open, and will close at midnight on 5 July 2026.
Full eligibility criteria, guidelines and how to apply can be found at sthelens.gov.uk/Community-Pot.