As one of the few funders (People and Places – Wales) Reaching Communities (England) able to fund larger sums over several years, this is becoming very competitive – the most I’ve ever known.  It is still worth applying BUT be sure to have checked their guidance. The online guidance from them is very good and spells out the projects and groups they want to fund.

What is especially important is in how you engage those who will benefit from the project in its work and planning, together with being able to show that this project has come from a genuine community need.

The more ways you can reach your community (not just those you currently work with, but also who could also benefit) is good as it show a genuine effort to find out the need. So a survey, open day, stalls at community events, social media interactions, can all help with this. You also want to show how other groups are working with you – this will show that you are not duplicating and how you are filling a recognised gap in service, that other groups also identify. Letters of support are not as valued as before, what is far more valuable is showing how you are working with them, and how they have helped shape the project.

Yes, this does take up time, often a lot of time, but it is worth it and will help your application

Speak to your local officer to discuss the project, they give great advice that will help you prepare a good solid case