In 2024, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield and CVA launched a small grants programme for Croydon voluntary sector and community groups. It wanted to support our small local grassroots organisations delivering:
- Initiatives and activities which tackle youth disenfranchisement by providing opportunities and activities for young people.
- Initiatives which support people experiencing homelessness, people living in temporary accommodation and/or refugees and asylum seekers.
- Initiatives and activities meeting local priorities as defined by Community Plans of Local Community Partnerships.
The funding programme was designed in two steps: an initial award of up to £1,000 followed by the chance to bid again, this time for up to £5,000, later in the year to build on learning and extend the reach of projects. The programme has been delivered three times since then:
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In 2024/2025 we were able to offer a £1,000 grant to 27 groups. 6 of them were successful in obtaining a further £5,000.
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In 2025/26 we offered up to £1,000 to 18 groups. Projects awarded include carers' cafes, community gardens, family art activities within food bank provision and more! The second round of funding had to be put on hold and groups will be able to participate to it in 2026/27.
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In 2026/27 we are awarding £15,000 in the first round and £20,000 in the second round. Priorities have slightly changed to youth engagement, homelessness and safety of women and girls
In 2024/2025 we were able to offer a £1,000 grant to 27 groups, 6 of them were successful in obtaining a further £5,000. In 2025/26 we have started the process by offering up to £1,000 to 18 groups. Projects awarded include carers' cafes, community gardens, family art activities within food bank provision and more!