Purpose

Allocation of Community Grant funding from 1 October 2026 - 31 March 2027.

Decision

To approve the allocation of Community Grant funding to existing voluntary, community and not-for-profit organisations delivering services and activities on behalf of, or in support of, the Council’s Community Services priorities.
The funding will support the delivery and continuation of services that benefit local residents, including vulnerable individuals and groups who may otherwise experience barriers to accessing support.
The funding allocations have been made in accordance with the Council’s grants criteria.
The amounts that have been authorised are as follows:
CASWS – £125,000.00
Yvonne Arnaud Theatre – £100,000.00
Guildford Action for Day Centres and Family Services - £45,000.00
Oakleaf Enterprise - £10,000.00
South West Surrey Domestic Abuse Service - £14,258.00
Voluntary Action South West Surrey - £4,873.50
Home Start Guildford - £2,500.00
The awarded grant amount for each grantee listed above covers the period 01 October 2026 - 31 March 2027.

Reasons for the decision

The Council works in partnership with voluntary, community and not-for-profit organisations to deliver services that meet local needs and contribute towards improved outcomes for residents.
These organisations play an important role in supporting vulnerable individuals and groups, promoting independence, reducing isolation, improving wellbeing and strengthening community connections.
Providing grant funding will help sustain the delivery of valued community services, support the early identification of needs and enable residents to access support within their communities.
The funding allocations have been considered against the relevant grant criteria and identified service needs, with an aim to ensure that funding is directed towards organisations and activities that provide demonstrable benefit to local residents.

Alternative options considered

Option 1 – do not award community grants funding:
This option was considered but is not recommended, as the withdrawal of funding could affect the sustainability and continuity of community services, potentially increasing demand on Council services and reducing access to support for vulnerable residents.