Our Grants Programmes

Bridging the Gap (BtG)

This is the Trust’s programme offering grants from £500 to £5,000 in England and Scotland (£500 to £10,000 in Wales), to voluntary and community groups for projects that can be completed within 12 months. A group can have one grant in any 12-month period and each application must be for a different activity. The application process is simple and we aim to get a decision within 12 weeks of receiving a completed application.

Main Grants Programme

The trust can make grants from £10,001 to £200,000 in England, £10,001 to £50,000 in Scotland and £10,001 to £100,000 in Wales, to voluntary, community and statutory organisations (NB. Statutory organisations can only apply for grants over £30,000).

Awards can be for capital or revenue for up to 3 years or to the end of the funding programme. Different timescales apply in different countries and our regional offices can give you details.

The application and assessment process involves a telephone interview or site visit and we aim to get a decision within 23 weeks of a complete application being received.

All awards are reviewed annually and continued funding is subject to the terms and conditions of the grants being met. Applicants are expected to plan and prepare for the continuation of the project beyond the period of the grant.

Strategic Interventions/Special Projects

In addition to making grants that help groups respond to local need, we are also proactive in developing ideas and projects that address key issues. These might focus on worklessness, isolation, skills, sector development and sustainability.

The Trust is always interested in working with partners to deliver projects and programmes that will contribute to the regeneration of coalfields communities. If you wish to discuss your ideas please get in touch with us.