By Isle of Wight Observer
Community organisations, charities, voluntary groups, educational institutions, and town, parish, and community councils across the IW are being invited to apply for funding through the IW Council’s Community Grant (HSF) scheme, open throughout September.
The scheme offers a total of £530,000 in one-off grants to support residents facing financial challenges, including food insecurity, utility costs, or other essential needs. Since its launch in October 2021, the scheme has provided around 250 grants.
Funding is available for both new and existing initiatives, with a particular focus on projects that prevent households from reaching crisis point, or help residents become financially independent.
Examples include community kitchens, cooking classes, integrated advice services, and other projects that align with the IW Poverty Reduction Strategy. Ian Lloyd, at the IW council, said: “This funding is a lifeline for many grassroots projects.
It’s about more than meeting immediate needs, it’s about building resilience and supporting long-term change. We want to hear from groups with ideas that can make a real difference.” This application window closes on September 30 and you can find more details and apply via iw.observer/hsf-grants. There will be another chance to apply in January 2026.
Carole Dennett