Braintree District Council launch second round of Cost of Living grant scheme

Braintree District Council has announced a further round of a small grants scheme providing funding of up to £10,000 to start or enhance existing community projects that support local residents with the cost of living.

The two-tier grant scheme, launched 31 March, is offering Microgrants up to £1,000 and Small Grants up to £10,000

The grant scheme forms part of the Council’s £1million Cost of Living Fund launched in 2023 from the council's New Homes Bonus allocation.

Any non-profit community groups and services can apply as long as they can evidence that the project supports one of the main objectives of the Cost of Living Fund, has a clear purpose and benefits Braintree district residents.

The three main objectives of the Cost of Living Fund are:

1. To provide food security & access to essential goods across the district making it easier for everyone to reach, including those living in our most rural areas.
2. To enable physical and emotional health and wellbeing for anyone, especially young people, struggling to afford vital access to leisure activities and sports clubs. 
3. To help the most vulnerable by supporting community groups and organisations to do more.

Cllr Graham Butland, Leader of Braintree District Council, said: “The first round of our Cost of Living small grants fund supported 33 projects across the district. It has been great to see the work being delivered in the community and I hope this second round of funding can continue to provide much needed support to residents across the Braintree district.”

Microgrants applications are open until the funding is spent and will be assessed on an ongoing basis. Small grants applications will be open for 8 weeks, closing on 26 May 2025. Successful applicants of this grant will be announced following the closing date.

To find out more information and apply visit: www.braintree.gov.uk/costoflivinggrants