Applications are now being invited for a fund that supports local community groups, charities and third sector organisations with revenue grant awards.
Over the years the One Council Partnership Fund has been able to support groups to run projects that have made a real difference in people’s lives.
The One Council Partnership Fund (OCPF) supports activities to help reduce inequalities and make East Lothian a better place to live. The focus of the funding awards for 2025/26 will be to support initiatives and activities which help community-based organisations to:
- Address inequalities, and the impact of poverty including health inequalities
- Reduce social isolation for vulnerable children, young people and adults
- Support prevention and early intervention activities across all age groups
- Provide more youth work opportunities for children and young people
- Respond to the climate emergency
- Promote volunteering.
Grants totalling over £1m
The One Council Partnership Fund issued grants totalling over £1m for 2024/25. Projects funded included MYPAS for its weekly one-to-one support for LGBT+ young people, the Pennypit Community Development Trust’s lunch clubs for local families during the school holidays and Time for Tea project to reduce social isolation, and the New Beginnings Club who provided social and leisure events for their members with physical and learning difficulties to promote positive mental health.
Cabinet member for Community Wellbeing Councillor Colin McGinn said:
“Over the years the One Council Partnership Fund has been able to support groups to run projects that have made a real difference in people’s lives. Despite the pressures on our council budgets, we are pleased to be able to continue with these awards. It recognises the huge value that partners offer to local communities and the importance of their work, particularly for some of our most vulnerable residents.
“It remains a challenging climate for many and the support that is provided by community-based groups, volunteers and the third sector across East Lothian is vital to our residents. We are very fortunate to have so many dedicated organisations and groups committed to supporting those in need within our area.”
Positive difference from funding
Applicants should reference how their project meets the council plan’s strategic priorities and the East Lothian Plan 2017-2027 and show how they will evidence local need and the positive difference the funding will make. They will also be expected to demonstrate other funding sources they have explored to maximise inward investment through alternative funding opportunities.
Applications are invited from Monday 4 November until Friday 2 December; decision letters will be issued in March 2025 following confirmation of the Council’s approved budget for financial year 2025/26. More information is available at www.eastlothian.gov.uk/one-council-fund