Small Charity Week is a nationwide celebration of the remarkable impact small charities have in communities across the U.K. These organisations may be small in size, but their contribution is powerful as they transform lives, address local needs, and foster resilience. The campaign shines a spotlight on their work, amplifies their voices, and connects them with the support they need to thrive. Because when small charities are strong, so are the communities they serve. Financial resilience  is a fitting theme for this year, reflecting the needs and realities of small charities today. To mark the occasion, we’re proud to share stories from our members who are receiving support through Social Economy West . Their experiences highlight how this initiative is helping them work differently, become more sustainable, and increase their impact. By sharing these journeys, we aim to celebrate their achievements, elevate their voices, and inspire continued recognition for the vital role small charities play across the region. Kicking off Small Charity Week, we are pleased to introduce Share and Repair! Can you tell us a little bit about your small charity? Share and Repair is a small, but fast-growing charity in Bath and North East Somerset. Our aim is to help local people and communities reduce carbon, waste and landfill to improve the environment we live in and save money.  We create opportunities to reduce, repair, reuse and learn. We are a catalyst for change through practical action and education, to deliver this we run 5 projects using 3 full-time equivalent staff and over 250 volunteers. What do you think are the main challenges you are facing as a small charities? Securing grants and donations has become increasingly challenging in today’s climate. With a noticeable decline in long-term funding opportunities, many charities find themselves in a constant cycle of chasing short-term grants which are now fewer and more competitive than ever. This uncertainty undermines financial sustainability and poses a significant barrier to building true resilience within the sector. How has being part of the Social Economy West Project impacted you? Being part of Social Economy West is fantastic. It’s incredibly helpful to have a fresh pair of eyes to shape our strategy and strengthen engagement with both our internal and external communities. Being matched with our mentor, Amy Sawbridge - Sawbridge Consulting , has been incredibly valuable. She brings a wealth of knowledge and is currently collaborating with us to design workshops aligned with our new strategy and to explore fresh opportunities for growth. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Check out the Share and Repair website here  to learn more about what they do! Share and Repair is currently receiving support through our Social Economy project.  They have been matched with one of our brilliant mentors to work on their strategy that aims to engage better and be more creative to achieve financial sustainability. Social Economy West is a West of England Mayoral Combined Authority initiative, led by Business West and delivered locally by 3SG in the Bath and North East Somerset area. This programme builds on our ongoing work with the School for Social Entrepreneurs and the Bath Social Impact Network, continuing our commitment to strengthening the region’s social economy. The aim of the project is to support third sector organisations, social enterprises, and co-operatives to become more financially sustainable and resilient in today’s challenging economic landscape. We do this via 5 key support activities: 1-1 Consultancy Pro-bono Mentoring Workshops Local and regional peer networks Accelerator Programme Through Social Economy West, we’re offering access to tailored support, practical resources, and expert guidance to help organisations: Identify and explore opportunities for sustainable impact Navigate increasing demand for services Build financial resilience and embed environmental sustainability Strengthen risk management practices Diversify income streams and reduce reliance on short-term funding If you’re a charity, community group, social enterprise, or co-operative working in Bath and North East Somerset, we encourage you to apply. Apply now  by completing the application form here: https://www.businesswest.co.uk/grow/social-economy-west If you have any questions or would like to talk about the programme in more detail, please get in touch with our Project Manager - Alfiya Khan at 3SG: alfiya@3sg.org.uk . Find out more about Small Charity Week here: https://www.smallcharityweek.com/ Small Charity Week defines a small charity as a voluntary organisation with a social or charitable purpose with an annual income of less than £1 million. This includes registered charities, community groups, community interest companies (CICs) and other structures. If your small charity would like to become a 3SG member, you can find more information here . Alternatively, please get in touch and we'd be happy to have a chat - contact@3sg.org.uk

Our wonderful Social Prescribing Project Manager, David, travelled to Manchester for NHS ConfedExpo 2025. NHS ConfedExpo is the UK's leading health and care conference, dedicated to driving innovation and improving care for patients and the public. Read about his experience, which was filled with learning, connection, and fresh ideas. --- Last week I was fortunate to attend the NHS ConfedExpo 2025 in Manchester. Travelling sustainably, via train, I was a little worried about the planned strikes. Luckily the journey was plain sailing, and I arrived in Manchester late afternoon in time to action some emails. I always find undertaking exercise during a work trip essential to keep the energy up. Tuesday evening I attended the gym finished off by a sauna session; this was not  at the expense of 3SG.  On day 1, I arrived bright and early, too early in fact as I wasn’t allowed in whilst the exhibitors finalised their stands. When entering Manchester Central conference centre it was quite overwhelming. However, I wondered round, and managed to find  ‘The role of the voluntary sector theatre’ where I bumped into Steve Spiers, along with some contacts Steve knew from Avon & Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership (AWP). It was interesting to hear some of the plans AWP have in the preventative space, and I look forward to following up on those connections. Steve was part of a panel at titled ‘The Nature Pill’ alongside Dr William Bird (GP & CEO Intelligent Health) and Dave Bell (Health & Environment Principal Officer). It was a fascinating discussion, and despite knowing the extensive benefits nature provides, it is always worth revisiting.  Following this I attended, The Power of Wellbeing with Dr Radha Modgil, who spoke about her own challenges and the what ‘being well’ meant to her. She was also providing free copies of her new book ‘Know your Own Power’ which I gave to my friend navigating a difficult time. The first key note speech followed. Unfortunately I hadn’t queued in time, so had to watch this from outside the auditorium (this proved difficult). One takeaway was the acknowledgement of the challenging times the NHS is facing, stating ‘ We need to be honest about our problems’. Transparency is a key value of mine, and I feel taking this approach will be key to moving forward in the right direction. Due to some poor food and drink options inside the conference hall, and with some prior research on Google, I went outside for lunch. This proved a great choice, one for the quality of food on offer, and secondly I got to immerse myself in nature by sitting adjacent to this water feature. It does frustrate me slightly when one of the key focuses on the conference is in relation to prevention yet ultra processed food is served in abundance. In the afternoon I managed to secure a seat in the auditorium where CEO, Matthew Taylor, of NHS Confederation delivered a keynote speech. He discussed the importance of becoming outcomes focused, the need for a collaborative approach and to be honest that we can’t transform the NHS on our own, it is everybody’s business.  Following this I attended ‘ The benefits of empowering your workforce’. It was great to hear the panel being honest about some of the challenges NHS employees face and how the shift to a more caring model to staff will lead to better outcomes for patients. Dr Bogdan Chiva Giurca provided a great example of how patients outcomes can be negatively affected when the workforce is not motivated or energised. He was honest in the reactive approach he and colleagues had adopted for a patient that kept attending A&E week after week. It wasn’t until Bogdan sat down with the patient, and made a referral to the Social Prescribing Link worker that this patient stopped attending A&E. This had the added benefit of improving Bogdan’s wellbeing as he could see that his work was not merely covering the cracks.  Day 2 started with the conference run club organised by Matthew Taylor. It was great to see Matthew leading from the front to get people moving, and I could tell from a brief discussion what running, particular park run, meant to him.  Feeling refreshed and revitalised I was ready for the first talk of the day ‘Empowering Communities to stay well’. This was a great session where Robyn captivated the audience with her story. After an accident, Robyn was paralysed and would require 24/7 care. Originally procured through agencies, there was no continuity of care. It took years before Robyn became aware of Personal Health Budgets, which after some doubt Robyn proceeded with. Robyn felt in control of her care and could decide who came into her home. Robyn’s passion is horses, and to be able to decide carers who shared this passion was life changing. This demonstrates the importance of person centred care and the positive outcomes it produces.  The keynote speaker was from the Secretary of State for Health & Social Care, Wes Streeting. There was an honesty about the challenges the NHS faces, describing the NHS as ‘fighting for its life’.  He also confirmed the publication of the NHS 10 year plan as being ‘weeks away’. The shifts outlined in this plan- from hospital to community, from analogue to digital, and from sickness to prevention- will have “radical implications for services. Much of what is done in hospital today will be done on the high street, over the phone, or through the NHS app in a decade’s time” Streeting said.  My one concern with the speech was the lack of acknowledgement of true prevention happening within our communities every day. I hope that the plan recognises the importance of activities that are helping to prevent ill health and promoting wellbeing such as that offered through Social Prescribing- Arts, culture & heritage, physical activity, Information & Advice and the Natural Environment. This concern was also reinforced by the cut in budget for The Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s (DCMS) from 25/26 to 28/29 by 1.2% in resource spending and 2.8% in capital expenditure. It was a great couple of days,  and left me feeling optimistic for now. Let’s hope the 10 year plan allows for positive change at a local level, ensuring communities are at the heart of it. Take a look at some of the fantastic moments captured by David at the ConfedExpo – If you want to know more about the conference then you can visit their website here - https://www.nhsconfedexpo.org/

On Saturday 14th June Residents of Bathford launched a new monthly Repair Café with local charity Share and Repair. This community-led event took place from 9.30am to 12pm at Bathford Parish Hall, offering a friendly and welcoming space where 13 local volunteers helped fix household items in return for a “pay what you can” donation. 23 Bathford residents brought along sometimes more than one item for repair including picture frames, lamps, toasters, toy cars and clothes. The Bathford Repair Café is part of a growing international movement that promotes repairing over replacing -reducing waste, saving money, and strengthening community ties. Whether it's a toaster that no longer pops, a chair with a wobbly leg, or a jumper in need of darning, visitors can receive help from skilled local volunteers with expertise in electricals, sewing, carpentry, bike maintenance and more. Bathford will be the 11th regular monthly Repair Cafe provided in Bath and North East Somerset by local charity Share and Repair. Lead volunteer Martin Hobbs has been the driving force to bringing this community event to his neighbourhood. Martin has been a regular volunteer at Share and Repair’s Corsham Repair Cafe for some time and is delighted that he can now offer repairs closer to his home.  “We want to empower people to keep their belongings out of landfill and to reconnect with the value of fixing things,” said Martin. “It’s also a great way to meet neighbours and learn new skills.” The Repair Café welcomes all ages and abilities. There’s no charge for repairs, though donations are gratefully accepted to help cover running costs. Whilst their items are being mended, guests are encouraged to enjoy refreshments and conversation in the pop-up café, provided in partnership with Bathford Village Shop and Cafe. Bathford Parish Council have also been supporting this initiative by providing the hall for free.  The Repair Cafe will now run on the second Saturday of the month at Bathford Parish Hall, with the next one being 9.30-12 on 12th July.  For more information, volunteering opportunities, or to find out more about Share and Repair’s other community projects please visit www.shareandrepair.org.uk .

St Monica Trust is pleased to announce the launch of the new thematic fund, offering core funding for organisations that support older people to live their best lives.   As part of their 10-year strategy, one of their key aims is to align their charitable giving more closely with their purpose. They regularly review their grant-making priorities based on what they’ve learned and the needs of the sector. Research and ongoing engagement consistently highlight that core funding is the most urgent requirement for many charities.   This new fund reflects their commitment to building communities where older people flourish, supported by a strong, resilient infrastructure. They will prioritise organisations whose core purpose is to support older people and whose values align with their own.   Grants of up to £20,000 will be awarded for one year, with the potential for up to two additional years of funding depending on reporting.   To ensure accessibility, they are using a two-stage application process. Interested organisations are invited to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) using the form found on the website here . Please ensure you read the Core Funding Overview before applying. Both documents are also available on the website   The deadline to submit an EOI is midday on Friday, 27 June 2025.   If they feel your work aligns with their strategic aims, they will invite you to submit a full application.  Click here for more details.

Volunteers' Week is a national celebration takes place every year during the first week of June, honouring the incredible impact volunteers have on their communities. It's a perfect moment to recognise, celebrate, and thank those who give their time so generously. To mark the occasion, we’re highlighting the amazing volunteers supporting communities and charities across Bath & North East Somerset. To champion their contributions and show our appreciation, 3SG has spoken with several local volunteers to share their inspiring stories. Each day from June 2nd to 6th, we’ll be featuring a different volunteer and the difference they make. On behalf of all charities, community groups, and third sector organisations across Bath & North East Somerset, we extend a heartfelt thank you to every volunteer. By sharing these stories, we hope to not only celebrate your efforts but also inspire others to get involved. LIBBY Last but by no means least, we have Psychology student and young adult carer, Libby. Alongside her studies at the University of Bath, Libby is currently volunteering with Bath Gateway Out & About, to help children and adults with learning disabilities engage in fun activities. Hear Libby's inspiring volunteer story, her motivations, and advice for others. "I am currently in my second year at the University of Bath studying Psychology. I am a young adult carer to my younger brother who has a rare genetic syndrome and severe autism, something I am sure has sparked my interest in both volunteering and in Psychology. Next year I am carrying out a work placement year for my degree as an Assistant Psychologist at Queen Mary College, London. In my free time I enjoy swimming, running and playing the piano." What current or past volunteering have you carried out? Just before lockdown I began volunteering with a swimming club near home called Colchester Phoenix Swimming Club. I would work as a 1:1 helping children with disabilities and learning difficulties learn how to swim. I really enjoyed seeing their joy when learning new skills, and this was an incredibly rewarding experience for me.  Currently, I am volunteering with Bath Gateway Out and About. I really enjoy talking to the members every week and celebrating their successes with them, as well as having general chit chats about life. And of course, seeing their amazing dance moves on disco weeks!! What motivates you to volunteer? I have found it to be incredibly rewarding to volunteer with children and adults with disabilities and learning difficulties. I feel that my experiences growing up with my brother has helped me to have to confidence to volunteer with the adults at Bath Gateway Out and About and deal with situations and think on my feet. I also particularly enjoy volunteering while at University as it dedicated an evening of my week where I can contribute to the community I am living in, and it gives me a break from being in a student role. What have you learnt from your experiences? I have definitely learnt to see life through a different lens. Attending sessions at Bath Gateway Out and About where members can juts be themselves is lovely to see, such as disco or quiz nights. Have there been any stand alone moments or stories from your volunteering that you'd like to share? Celebrating the successes of members is really poignant for me. This can be from starting a new job, to moving out of home, to making new friends. It is wonderful to share in the celebration of this. What advice would you give to someone looking to start volunteering? I would say to volunteer in an area you are really passionate about and use any past experience that you have. What is your favourite thing about volunteering? The joy I get from hearing other's stories, or helping members with a question, whether this be from fashion advice to something more serious! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interested in becoming a volunteer? Check out our Volunteer page  for more information, and where else to find opportunities. The local service provider for the Bath & North East Somerset Volunteer Service, Everyone Health , have advised that their advertising platform will be live from the end of June. We hope this will make finding and advertising local volunteer opportunities easier for all. You can also subscribe to 3SG's monthly Community Newsletter , and 3SG's Volunteer Whatsapp group , to be kept up to date with new, local volunteer opportunities, on a monthly basis.

In a world that often feels fast-paced and transactional, volunteering is one of those beautifully human acts that reminds us what community really means. Whether it’s an hour a week or a once-a-year commitment, volunteering isn’t just about giving, it’s about connection, belonging, and purpose. As someone who works closely with individuals and organisations in the voluntary sector, I see first-hand how powerful this work can be. I also know that many charities and community groups are under increasing pressure. More people need support, but fewer resources are available. That’s why volunteers, and those who champion the sector, are more important than ever. Volunteering: It’s Not Just Nice, It’s Necessary Volunteers don’t just “help out”, they keep organisations going. They are the reason food gets delivered, events get run, people feel less alone, and communities stay resilient. So much of the good that happens in our towns and cities relies on everyday people stepping forward. But let’s be honest: volunteering isn’t always easy. Life is busy. Energy is limited, especially for those of us who are neurodivergent, managing health conditions, or simply stretched thin. That’s why it’s vital we celebrate all  kinds of giving. From a regular trustee role to replying to a single community forum post, it all counts. The Voluntary Sector Needs Our Support Many charities are facing burnout, funding cuts, and staff shortages. Yet their work hasn’t stopped, in fact, demand has often increased. Supporting the sector doesn’t have to mean becoming a superhero. Here are just a few ways we can all help: Volunteer your time  - even a little can make a difference. Share opportunities - on social media or with friends and family. Champion local groups  - attend events, boost their posts, talk about them. Listen and learn  - understand the challenges and barriers communities face. Offer your skills  - from admin to design, every talent has value. Volunteering Is Good for You , Too While volunteering makes a big difference to others, it can also have a powerful impact on your own wellbeing. Giving your time, on your terms, can bring a sense of purpose, connection, and confidence. Volunteering can: Boost wellbeing  - Studies show it can lower stress, improve mood, and even benefit physical health. Reduce isolation  - Whether in-person or remote, it’s a chance to connect with others and feel part of something. Build experience  - Volunteering can gently grow your skills, knowledge, and confidence, especially valuable if you’re returning to work, changing direction, or exploring what’s next. Offer routine and structure  - For some, a regular commitment brings a helpful rhythm to the week. The key is finding something that works for you . That might mean short-term, flexible, or low-pressure opportunities. It might mean taking breaks when needed. Volunteering shouldn’t feel like a burden- it should feel like a mutual exchange of time, care, and community. A Space for Everyone If you’re neurodivergent, chronically ill, or carrying extra pressures or responsibilities, know that your lived experience is needed . The voluntary sector thrives when it reflects the people it serves. More and more organisations are becoming aware of accessibility and inclusion, and if they’re not, it’s okay to ask questions or offer gentle feedback. Supporting others doesn’t mean burning out. It’s about contributing in a way that works for you . That might be online, behind-the-scenes, or through one-off actions. It all matters. Let’s Keep Showing Up At its heart, volunteering is about care. The care we show for people, for places, for the causes we believe in. In a time when so much feels uncertain, this kind of care is deeply needed. It’s what holds communities together and reminds us we’re not alone. And whether you’re volunteering, working in the sector, or simply cheering others on, you’re part of something that truly makes a difference. Let’s keep showing up for each other, we can achieve more when we work together. Written by 3SG Project Manager, Toni Green. Toni runs our Volunteering Network , a useful resource for local Volunteer Coordinators and those involved in managing volunteering in Bath & North East Somerset. You can get in touch with Toni via toni@3sg.org.uk

Volunteers' Week is a national celebration takes place every year during the first week of June, honouring the incredible impact volunteers have on their communities. It's a perfect moment to recognise, celebrate, and thank those who give their time so generously. To mark the occasion, we’re highlighting the amazing volunteers supporting communities and charities across Bath & North East Somerset. To champion their contributions and show our appreciation, 3SG has spoken with several local volunteers to share their inspiring stories. Each day from June 2nd to 8th, we’ll be featuring a different volunteer and the difference they make. On behalf of all charities, community groups, and third sector organisations across Bath & North East Somerset, we extend a heartfelt thank you to every volunteer. By sharing these stories, we hope to not only celebrate your efforts but also inspire others to get involved. Martin Our next volunteer, Martin , is a Programme Director for a Satellite Communications company. He has been volunteering for Bath City Football Club Foundation for past six years. He has vast experience volunteering with football clubs and has also volunteered internationally with a charity implementing clean water projects in Ghana . Read on to hear more about Martin's experiences, motivations and advice. What inspired you to start volunteering? As I got older and couldn’t play as much as I wanted, volunteering became a great way to stay connected to football and pass on some of what I’ve learned — not just skills, but the values and mindset the game’s given me. I can’t commit to coaching a team week in, week out, so volunteering with the Foundation gives me the flexibility to still make an impact. Football has given me some of my best mates and favourite memories, and I want the next generation to have the same chance. My dad’s a big part of that too — he was Chairman of Leeds Schools FA and coached kids for over 50 years, including a current England international and a couple of ex-Premier League players. He’s been a massive inspiration. What have you learnt from your experiences? I’ve learnt that everyone can make a difference — even if it’s just to one person. What may seem like a really small thing to us, might make the world of difference to them. We all have the chance to enrich someone’s life, and I genuinely believe it’s our responsibility to do that when we can. But it’s not just one-way — as much as we try to pass on our experience to the kids, we’re constantly learning from them too. I started out with quite fixed ideas about coaching, based mainly on working with adult teams, but I’ve definitely had to become more flexible — especially when coaching girls or working with groups who have additional learning needs and challenges. Have there been any stand alone moments or stories from your volunteering that you'd like to share? At one of the schools, we had a lad who, by his own admission, was overweight, hadn’t really played football before, and didn’t have the confidence that some of the others did. He left his first session in tears after some name-calling, but after a chat, he agreed to give it another go the following week. Fast forward four years — he’s now playing for a local team, in great shape, and has even volunteered with the Foundation himself. It’s really down to his own resolve, determination, and resilience, but I like to think that without that early encouragement, he might not have taken that path. It’s something I’m genuinely proud of — seeing how much he’s grown, not just in football, but in confidence and as a person. What advice would you give to someone looking to start volunteering? To coin a famous tag-line: Just Do It. You won't regret it and have absolutely nothing to lose. It's great for mental health - the feeling you get from helping others, from making a difference, and you'll learn a tonne of stuff along the way. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interested in becoming a volunteer? Check out our Volunteer page  for more information, and where else to find opportunities. You can also subscribe to 3SG's monthly Community Newsletter , and 3SG's Volunteer Whatsapp group , to be kept up to date with new, local volunteer opportunities, on a monthly basis.

The countdown to Volunteers' Week 2025 is officially over! This national celebration takes place every year during the first week of June, honouring the incredible impact volunteers have on their communities. It's a perfect moment to recognise, celebrate, and thank those who give their time so generously. To mark the occasion, we’re highlighting the amazing volunteers supporting communities and charities across Bath & North East Somerset. To champion their contributions and show our appreciation, 3SG has spoken with several local volunteers to share their inspiring stories. Each day from June 2nd to 8th, we’ll be featuring a different volunteer and the difference they make. On behalf of all charities, community groups, and third sector organisations across Bath & North East Somerset, we extend a heartfelt thank you to every volunteer. By sharing these stories, we hope to not only celebrate your efforts but also inspire others to get involved. Gill Our first volunteer, Gill, is a retired Civil Servant, born and bred in Bath. She has experience of volunteering in a range of different roles and organisations, including The Theatre Royal Bath, the RUH, Dorothy House and she is also the vice chair of trustees at the Peggy Dodd Centre . Read on to hear more about Gill's experiences, motivations and advice. What inspired you to start volunteering? When I retired I wanted to do something with my time in the community. I was already a Trustee at the Peggy Dodd Centre and when Vaccination Centres required volunteers to help with the rollout of COVID vaccines I became a part of that program. When that came to an end after 2 and half years I decided to stay with the NHS and support the RUH. What have you learnt from your experiences? I have learnt that it costs nothing to be kind and considerate to people whatever their background. Some people can be quite dismissive and disrespectful but I treat everyone the same. I find helping people very rewarding and enjoy the comradeship with other volunteers. Have there been any stand alone moments or stories from your volunteering that you'd like to share? There have been many rewarding moments just helping people get to appointments and taking away some of their stresses and anxieties chatting to them as I walk with them to their clinic. As part of my Dorothy House role I have sat with patients allowing their l loved ones to get a much needed coffee and sandwich. I also remember an evening at the theatre when a noticed a member of the audience slumped in their chair. I went to get the Front of House to organise medical support and to ensure as little disruption to the audience and production team as possible. What advice would you give to someone looking to start volunteering? Definitely give it a go. It is so rewarding and makes great use of spare time. There are so many volunteering roles, some where you may work alone but many where you are part of a team. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interested in becoming a volunteer? Check out our Volunteer page  for more information, and where else to find opportunities. You can also subscribe to 3SG's monthly Community Newsletter , and 3SG's Volunteer Whatsapp group , to be kept up to date with new, local volunteer opportunities, on a monthly basis.

The countdown is on to Volunteers' Week 2025! The national celebration takes places annually in the first week of June, to commend the amazing contributions volunteers make to their communities. Volunteers' Week is the perfect opportunity to recognise, celebrate, and pay thanks to our incredible volunteers! In 2024, volunteering added £4.6 billion in productivity gains to the UK economy, and 25 million people in the UK volunteered informally at least once in the year*. Volunteering is a vital component of society and these figures highlight the remarkable contributions of volunteers across the UK. Volunteers' Week aims to continue growing the impact of of volunteering and create stronger, more connected communities. Volunteers' Week has been running for over 40 years, helping to provide a platform for organisations and communities to thank volunteers for their amazing contributions, celebrate the spirit of volunteering and highlight its importance to inspire continued engagement. At 3SG, we're passionate about volunteering and incredibly thankful to those who give their time to help their communities and local organisations in Bath & North East Somerset. We encourage our 250 member organisations to take this chance to collectively celebrate them. We know how busy you are doing incredible work in our local communities, so we’ve put together this guide with ideas and resources for celebrating Volunteers’ Week. So, what can your voluntary organisation do to get involved?  Celebrate your volunteers and raise awareness of their contributions: Sending Thank You cards or small Thank You gifts This could involve reaching out to local commercial connections to see if they have free products or gift cards they'd be happy to donate as volunteer gifts, exploring what volunteer incentive or reward programmes  currently exist, utilising 3SG's free Komedia Tickets offer  (3SG members only), or simply downloading Volunteers' Week templates for Thank You cards to share a simple token of gratitude. Organising a Volunteers' Social Arranging a get-together to socialise provides your volunteers with the opportunity to relax, make connections and meet friends in a fun and informal setting. This could be a celebratory event such as The Big Lunch (7 - 8 June) , a picnic, or an activity outing. Spotlight Volunteer Efforts and Stories Share more about your volunteers on social media, in your newsletters, and maybe even reach out to a local radio or newspaper to shine a light and celebrate your volunteers hard work. Utilise this Volunteer Story Template for an easy way to get started. Remember that we host a weekly Radio Bath slot for our 3SG members, providing an opportunity for you to promote your organisation, and share stories from your volunteers, to local listeners (bookings for July & August will open and be announced in our weekly newsletter in mid-June). Celebrating Milestones Presenting certificates  for length of service or other milestones reached can help your volunteers to feel appreciated and inspire others. Utilise official Volunteers' Week communications Make the most of the national conversation around volunteering to promote what your volunteers are doing, and what prospective volunteers can get involved in. Amplify your message by re-sharing official Volunteers' Week social media posts alongside your content. Utilise hashtags to reach wider audiences, and ask supporters and stakeholders to re-share. Downloadable Volunteer Certificates and Thank You cards, Social Media Guide, graphics, and other resources and advice for hosting events : https://volunteersweek.org/resources Develop your volunteer programme: Revamp your volunteer adverts to attract wider audiences Ensure that you're using inclusive language, clearly describing the roles and requirements, whilst also showcasing what you have to offer and why your organisation is a great place to volunteer. Organise 'taster' sessions or inductions days for prospective volunteers to dip their toe in the water and hear more at an informal setting Update your volunteer policies Advertise Far and Wide Including with the University of Bath Student's Union , and the Co-op . Make the most of local community Facebook groups to spread the word, and utilise industry specific platforms such as Technology Volunteers or Media Trust , if you're looking for certain skills. Everyone Health is the new provider of the B&NES Community Volunteer Service - who are responsible for managing a central advertising platform for local volunteer opportunities. They have advised us that their advertising platform should be live by the end of June. Supporting and managing volunteers all year round It's great to celebrate your volunteers during Volunteers' Week, but make sure your volunteer programme is delivering for your volunteers all year. Well supported and engaged volunteers are more likely to continue volunteering with your organisation. Flexible volunteering opportunities Regular communications and check-ins Understand the reasons your volunteers wish to volunteer and their motivations Offer further training and opportunities to develop skills of interest, for example, allowing a volunteer exposure to marketing tasks if they're interested in a marketing career Take advantage of training events, useful guides and webinars for volunteer coordinators. If your organisation is hosting an event or launching a volunteering initiative during Volunteers' Week, please let us know so that we can help to promote. Email us via contact@3sg.org.uk 3SG Support Volunteering Network 3SG hosts a Volunteering Network for anyone working with volunteers in Bath & North East Somerset. The Network was previously led by St Mungo’s and HCRG's Volunteer Service, until 3SG re-launched it in September 2024. We now run the Network independently, without funding, to offer this vital resource and support to the local Third Sector. The Network meets quarterly (next meeting in mid-September). You can subscribe to Network updates and invites here. Volunteer Coordinator Handbook 3SG Project Manager, Toni Green, has created a comprehensive Volunteer Coordinator Handbook filled with great advice and useful information for anyone managing or coordinating volunteers. 3SG members can access a free digital copy of this resource, with hard copies available to purchase. Non-members are also welcome to purchase a digital or hard copy: Find out more here and request your copy today . Volunteer Fair In 2023, 3SG hosted its first Volunteer Fair in central Bath. We invited 40+ local charities to exhibit and promote their volunteering opportunities to local residents. The pilot event was a success, and we brought the Fair back, bigger and better, in 2024, welcoming over 300 visitors! The Fair will return on Friday 17th October 2025 , 11am - 3pm at the Apex Hotel, Bath. In July, we will invite 3SG members to book stalls! Keep an eye on our weekly newsletter for the announcement (3SG members will be notified first). We will also be hosting a series of workshops at the Fair on all things volunteering. If you have an idea for a workshop, or would like to collaborate on one, please get in touch via contact@3sg.org.uk Other Events for Volunteers' Week NCVO & Zurich Developing and Embedding Effective Risk Assessments for Volunteers Webinar, Monday 9th June 11:00 - 12:15 An essential, free webinar on creating and embedding effective risk assessments to protect your volunteers and those they support. Find out more and sign up here. NCVO also offer half-day 'Recruiting Volunteers' training sessions , priced on a sliding scale of affordability, starting at £57 for smaller non-member organisations. They're next training date is June 12th. Ygam A national charity helping to protect young people from the hidden risks of gambling and gaming, are hosting free training sessions for all volunteers who work with children and young people aged 7 - 25. T he session is designed to upskill them with the tools to spot signs of gambling and gaming harm  and know how to respond in a safe and supportive way . The online training is available at various times throughout Volunteers' Week and is tailored to a variety of different organisational settings (e.g. Health & Social Care, for hospital volunteers, or Sports Organisations, for anyone volunteering in a youth sports setting, etc). Find out more and sign up to a training session here. *Statistics from Royal Voluntary Service and NCVO .

Below is a selection of current funding opportunities available to charitable organisations across B&NES. The 16 opportunities below are listed in order of closing date, and separated into two sections; Local and National. Local Opportunities B&NES Community Contribution Fund 🪙 £500 - £1,000 Small grants of either £500 or £1,000 for new projects or activities that will both reduce inequality and benefit those over the age of 55. The aim is to help organisations get a new activity off the ground – perhaps trialling something completely new, or taking an existing activity to a different area within Bath and North East Somerset. Deadline: Friday 30th May. Find Out More. Bath Building Society Community Awards 2025 🪙 £1,000 - £5,000 One Community Awards of £5,000, two at £2,500 and five at £1,000 available. Open to charities, community groups, Community Interest Companies (CICs) and school PTAs in Bath & North East Somerset, with a turnover of up to £500,000. Deadline: Friday 30th May. Find Out More. St Monica Trust Core Funding 🪙 Grants of up to £20,000 are available for one year, with the potential for a further two years of funding depending on reporting New thematic fund offering core funding for organisations that support older people to live their best lives. Support must be delivered in Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire or North Somerset, and clearly demonstrate how their work benefits older people. Grants of up to £20,000 are available for one year, with the potential for a further two years of funding depending on reporting. Deadline: Friday 27th June. Find Out More. Woodroffe Benton Foundation 🪙 Usually £500 - £2,500 The August 2025 Small Grant funding round focuses on projects that improve the quality of life and social engagement for people with severe physical and/or learning disabilities. Deadline: Sunday 31st August - apply from start of August as will close when 150 applications have been received.  Find Out More. Quartet Community Foundation Express Grant Programme 🪙 Up to £5,000 The aim is to support local grassroot groups and small to medium sized organisations. You can apply for funding towards activities, projects and services that: strengthen communities experiencing inequalities and disadvantage; and/or improve the lives of local people who face difficulties and have limited access to appropriate or affordable services and support. Deadline: Ongoing. Find Out More. National Opportunities W.G. Edwards Charitable Foundation 🪙 Usually £1,000 - £1,500 This funding is open to a diverse range of UK registered charities which support older people. 90% of your beneficiaries must be aged over 65. Capital and innovative projects are supported. The application window is small, open only between May 19th - 23rd. Deadline: Applications must be submitted between May 19th - 23rd via email. Find Out More. ASDA Local Community Spaces Fund 🪙 £10,000 - £20,000 Open to charities and community groups to allow them to provide safe, accessible spaces for people to meet and be together. Deadline: 10am, Wednesday 28th May 2025. May close earlier if oversubscribed. Find Out More. Jerwood Foundation - Summer Funding 🪙 Grants have ranged from £1k to £60k Funding applications from organisations with focus on making art available for public benefit. Deadline: 5pm, Wednesday 28th May 2025. Find Out More. Lloyds Bank Foundation - Racial Equity Programme 🪙 £75,000 Small local charities and community interest companies (CICs) working with people experiencing inequity because of their race or ethnicity can apply for a three year unrestricted grant of £75,000 alongside development support. Eligible organisations will have an annual income between £25k - £500k, and be an independent organisation with a track record of delivering services for at least one year to people aged 18 and over. Deadline: Thursday 29th May 2025. Find Out More. Big Give Women and Girls Match Fund 🪙 Match funding The Women and Girls Match Fund utilises our ‘1:1’ Model of match funding. Women and Girls charities apply to Big Give and have their application assessed. Successful charities are awarded a sum of match funding which is ring-fenced for their organisation. This match funding is unlocked by public donations given through Big Give’s online fundraising platform during the campaign. Open  to UK registered charities with an annual income over £25k, and seeking to raise £2,500 - £10,000 in donations. Deadline: Friday 30th May 2025. Find Out More. Arts, Fundraising & Philanthropy Networks Funding 🪙 Up to £2,500 Providing code financial support to arts, cultural and heritage organisations in England. The fund is particularly interested in activity that aims to strengthen governance, fundraising, earned income an audience development. The funded activity or event must take placed between June and October 2025. Deadline: 12 midday, Friday 6th June 2025. Find Out More. CrossCountry – Customer and Communities Improvement Fund 🪙 £100,000 in total This funding is for charities and community projects across the UK that deliver tangible social and environmental benefits are invited to apply. The fund seeks to support projects that reduce pollution, protect the environment, support sustainable community growth and create a positive impact. Deadline: Friday 6th June 2025. Find Out More. The Cooperative Foundation Future Communities Fund 🪙 Up to £30,000 The second round of Coop Foundation Future Communities Fund is open 15 May to 12 Jun. It provides unrestricted funding for up to 5 years. It's open to UK non profits , with income of £250,000 pa or less, that primarily support justice-experienced young people aged 10-25 years old. Deadline: Thursday 12th June 2025. Find Out More. Big Give Christmas Challenge 2025 🪙 Match funding The Christmas Challenge is the UK’s biggest collaborative fundraising campaign, championing a wide range of charitable organisations. The Pledge Model offers supporters of participating charities the opportunity to double their donations with match funding via a seven-day online campaign in December 2025. Open to UK registered charities with an annual income over £25k. There is an application support webinar on May 22nd - register here. Deadline: 5pm, Friday 4th July 2025. Find Out More. Hall & Woodhouse - The Community Chest 🪙 £300 - £3,000 The Community Chest is now in its 24th year of giving a helping hand to local people in supporting and strengthening their community, by encouraging volunteer led charities to apply for a grant to go towards improving their local area. Applications are welcome from any voluntary or community organisation that is based, or works in, our trading area across the south of England. Eligible organisations must have a total income under £200k. The funding supports youth work and activities, sports and social clubs, elderly and people with disabilities, health and social care, local arts and culture, conservation and the environment, but not national organisations. Deadline: Sunday 13th July 2025. Find Out More. AB Charitable Trust 🪙 £10,000 to £30,000 per year, from one to three years Funding is available for organisations who work in human rights, access to justice, the criminal legal system and penal reform, migrants and refugees. Where possible, funding is unrestricted. Deadline: Friday 25th July 2025. Find Out More. -------------------------------------------------------- More funding opportunities can be found via the BaNES Funding Finder - Click Here 3SG member organisations also benefit from free access to our Funds Online  account, allowing you to search a library of over 8,000 funders giving a combined total of £8 billion. If you're a member,  head to the Resources page here to find out more.  You can find out more about 3SG membership here , or get in touch via contact@3sg.org.uk   If you work in a fundraising capacity you may also be interested in joining our Fundraising & Communications Network , with Bath Fundraisers' Group. The Network meets quarterly, with different themes and speakers, to offer support and enable inclusive networking and learning amongst those involved in fundraising in B&NES. You can sign up to the monthly Bath Fundraisers' Group Newsletter here and join the LinkedIn group here.

Have some content you want to spotlight?  What about the creators you work with behind the scenes?  Charity Comms Inspiring Communicator Awards 2025 is now open for nominations until 3 September. They're looking to praise the rising stars and strategic leaders in charity communications,  mark the best collaborations and in-house campaigns, and cheer on the best teams and inclusive communicators. Put in your nomination today (it's free!) and help them celebrate charity communicators.

The Graduate Internship Scheme is funded by Bath Spa University and currently open to Expressions of Interest. Along with all internships being fully funded by BSU Careers, organisations can have the opportunity to benefit from the skills, insights and innovative ideas that BSU graduates can bring to enhance existing processes or services. The programme offers recent BSU graduates the chance to gain developmental, short-term, paid work experience to grow their skills and confidence in a graduate-level role within an organisation.   Find out more   Programme overview, link to full guidance & application form: https://bit.ly/4jrzZpD   Contact employer-services@bathspa.ac.uk    Submit an expression of interest   Firstly, read the full Guidance, Best Practice, Terms and Conditions document (found linked inside the programme overview ) Complete an Expression of Interest form  The deadline to submit an internship is 25 May 2025. Please aim to submit your internship by this deadline. BSU will continue to accept submissions until 5 pm on 30 May 2025. However, submitting an expression of interest after 25 May could delay your opportunity being promoted to graduates.

Bath Building Society has re-launched its annual Community Awards as part of the Society’s pledge to give 2% of profits back to the community each year.   The newly named Community Awards reflects the scope of the awards which are now open to charities, community groups, Community Interest Companies (CICs) and School PTAs in Bath and North East Somerset (BANES).   Launched in 2006, Bath Building Society has donated more than £123,000 through the annual awards to support over 150 local charities and community groups in the past 19 years. In 2025 the funding pot has increased to £15,000, more than doubling funds available in previous years.   This year local charities and community groups can apply for up to £5,000 through the Community Awards: 1 x £5,000 2 x £2,500 5 x £1,000   Bath Building Society CEO, Richard Ingle said: “As a judge for the annual Awards I’m always blown away by the great work that local charities, community groups and volunteers do in our local community. The Society’s roots in the community are very important to us. This year we have committed to donate 2% of profits back into the community and are pleased to be able to increase the funding pot for our annual Awards this year.” The awards are now open for applications until Friday, 30th May.  New for this year, Bath Building Society welcomes applications from charities, community groups, Community Interest Companies (CICs) and school PTA’s in Bath & North East Somerset, with a turnover of up to £500,000.   For more information about the Bath Building Society Community Awards and to apply online, please visit: https://www.bathbuildingsociety.co.uk/your-society/supporting-our-community/community-awards/

Bath Spa University (BSU) is launching BSU Boost, an initiative that enables freelancers, arts and culture organisations, and micro-businesses from the creative industries in and around Bath to apply for grant funding that they would be otherwise unable to access. Within Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES) in 2023 it was reported that 89% of enterprises are micro-businesses with 16% classified as creative industry businesses . Yet many of these are currently excluded from applying for significant funding programmes and development opportunities due to financial or structural barriers, a lack of knowledge around contracting, legal requirements or governance, or the onerous burden of reporting required by many funders. With many of its graduates and creative community amongst those trying to kickstart their business, BSU wants to help. Through its enterprise and innovation hub, The Studio, and its Centre for Cultural and Creative Industries, BSU has extensive experience of the challenges facing creative technology micro-businesses and freelancers in the city. BSU Boost is here to help creative and cultural businesses in B&NES, or within ten miles of its borders, to access the funding needed to thrive. BSU Boost can: ·       Offer support on application processes up to submission and beyond ·       Increase knowledge of how to access funds previously deemed unattainable ·       Help develop the business tools to grow and succeed Celebrating this opportunity to support the local creative community, Stacey Pottinger, Producer of BSU Boost and Project Manager, Inclusive Communities Unit at BSU said: “We are really excited to launch this opportunity to work hand in hand with small creative industry businesses to support them to develop, grow and access new funding opportunities and markets previously inaccessible to them." BSU Boost was piloted with the University’s cultural partner, Little Lost Robot CIC - a not-for-profit collective of artists working with social practice and managing community studios in B&NES. BSU were able to support Little Lost Robot CIC with bid writing, project administration, monitoring, evaluation and much more. Reflecting on the successful BSU Boost pilot, Juliet Webb, Co-Director of Little Lost Robot CIC said: “We are so fortunate to have partnered with the BSU Boost team. BSU's support makes the difference between us having the ability to run the project or fading out of existence. The sharing of expertise and support has been fundamental to our success.” Kate Pullinger, Academic Lead  of BSU Boost and Co-Director of the Centre for Cultural and Creative Industries (CCCI), said: “Access to funding is one of the key barriers for many microbusinesses in the region. Boost will enable arts and culture and technology businesses to develop new income streams and new ways of working. Partnering with creative businesses enables BSU to increase its knowledge of and support for the creative industries in our City and region, which is a key part of CCCI’s mission.” BSU Boost is currently open to applications for the 2025 cohort. To find out more about eligibility and to register your interest, visit the BSU Boost webpage.

EDIT (25/04/25): Opportunity closed. All positions now filled. The University of Bath are inviting two local organisations to benefit from a fully paid student to work on a project based on the organisation’s needs.   Within the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences we see the importance in providing real world opportunities to our students and have partnered up with the Santander Employability Scheme. Funding is eligible for organisations to benefit from a fully paid student to complete a work project within the business. The work project can be completed virtually or in person. The project will take place over the summer of 2025 and students can work up to 108 hours over the project (maximum of 35 hours per week).  See a summary of previous years here: Trio of students work with local organisations as part of Santander Employability Projects scheme   Benefits to your organisation:   An opportunity to address a challenge/issue    A cost-effective way of gaining free additional resource and insight   Exposure to future graduate recruits   Enthusiastic students eager to deliver high quality work   CPD opportunities for existing team members     The projects can be based around your organisational need, as you can see from previous examples, these can be different projects, if you would be interested in support around climate focused work then we can approach our climate action team for support.   If you would be interested in hosting an Employability Project for one of our students during summer 2025 then please contact Katie Gilham-Terrell ( klg48@bath.ac.uk ) and we can arrange to discuss this further.

Photo of 3SG staff Emma Huggill (L) and Alifya Khan (R) with Roz Lambert, Chief Executive of First Steps Bath First Steps Bath  have recently received support from  BANES 3rd Sector Group (3SG)  via the Social Economy West Programme - see what Chief Executive, Roz Lambert said below: "The support through Social Economy West has been essential in helping us gather factual evidence to make strategic changes and explore realistic options to generate a surplus, ultimately increasing our impact." Alfiya Khan from 3SG commented, "Seeing these organisations flourish and take their next big steps has been incredibly rewarding. It’s proof that with the right support, the social economy can thrive even in uncertain times." Interested in support for your own organisation? Social Economy West provides charities, Third Sector organisations, social enterprises, and co-operatives with the resources, expertise and guidance they need to: - Explore opportunities for growth - Effectively manage increasing demand on services - Build economic resilience and enhance environmental sustainability - Manage risk more effectively  - Diversify income streams  Find out more and apply here:  https://www.3sg.org.uk/sew A  West of England Mayoral Combined Authority  initiative, delivered in partnership with Business West and expert partners to support the social economy across the region.

The amazing work that individuals and organisations do across Bath and North East Somerset to improve the lives of others has been recognised in this year’s Community Awards. The Community Awards 2024/2025 celebrate the positive contributions that people make to communities and the winners were announced at a ceremony at Bath’s Guildhall this week (April 14). The awards organised by Bath & North East Somerset Council and its partners invited nominations for individuals or organisations who go above and beyond to support others.  The charity of the year, volunteer of the year and young volunteer team of the year categories were decided by public vote. The awards winners are: Willson Volunteer of the Year: Graham Bush who   became a member of Saltford Scouts as a cub in 1980 and has since shown unwavering commitment to empowering young individuals through his involvement with Saltford Scouts and the Wansdyke Scout District. Beryl Dixon Community Leader of the Year: Ransford Ras Habakkuk Graham who arrived in 1967 as one of the Windrush children and has since dedicated himself to community work for the black community, currently serving as an elder in the Rastafari community at Fairfield House. Charity of the Year:   Forget Me Not Club based in Twerton which provides a small, friendly club to support older people living with dementia. Highly commended were  I Can, and I Am and  Trauma Breakthrough . Volunteer Team of the Year:   Somer Valley FM ,  a not-for-profit community radio station focused on volunteer engagement and connecting education with community development. Highly commended were the  Keynsham Community Fridge team and  The Together Project at Bath Cats & Dogs Home. Young Volunteer Team of the Year: Bath Marrow   which seeks to have a positive impact on the lives of people with blood cancer and their families through its partnership with the Anthony Nolan charity. Highly commended were  The BANES Youth Forum and  Bath Nightline Peter Duppa-Miller Parish Award  for commitment and service by councillors: Councillor Phil Harding of Saltford Parish Council  Councillor Karen Walker, council Chair, said: “The Community Awards serve as a platform to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of remarkable individuals and organisations within our community, allowing us to express our appreciation. We were thrilled to receive over eighty nominations across various categories, and your inspiring stories made the decision-making process quite challenging. Congratulations to the winners and those highly commended. “Thank you to everyone who participated in the awards, including the nominators, our partner organisations and everyone who contributed to the public voting categories.” Becky Brooks, Director at 3SG, said: "The Community Awards were launched by Bath & North East Somerset Council at 3SG's Volunteer Fair last October to recognise the importance of charities and local residents who go above and beyond for the benefit of others. A huge congratulations to all of the winners of this year's awards and thank you for the tireless work that you do. It is needed now more than ever and these awards support that well deserved recognition." The Community Awards partners include: The Student Community Partnership (University of Bath, Bath Spa University & Bath College) Bath Ethnic Minority Senior Citizen Association (BEMSCA) CURO Bath & North East Somerset Third Sector Group (3SG) Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) HCRG Care Group

The Saltways is  dedicated to helping charities and nonprofit organisations tell their stories effectively through ethical filmmaking and content creation. Founded by experienced charity professionals, we understand the unique challenges small to medium-sized nonprofits face when trying to showcase their impact with limited resources. They've recently launched The Community Studio - an online learning platform designed specifically for nonprofits to become creators. This self-paced programme teaches organisations how to create authentic, powerful videos using just their smartphones - no expensive equipment or prior experience needed. They're offering  a special 20% discount code (CC20). Please note, The Community Studio enrollment closes on April 23rd. Programme link: https://payhip.com/thesaltways In addition to The Community Studio, they're hosting two specialised workshops: How to Create Effective Content Using Phones - A hands-on session where participants learn practical techniques for capturing professional-quality video with smartphones. Ethical Filmmaking for Nonprofits - Exploring how to create content that respects dignity, obtains meaningful consent, and authentically represents communities. https://thesaltways.com/

Local charities are invited to host a stall at a Charity Summit at the University of Bath on Monday 28th April. A team of volunteers at the University of Bath Amnesty Society are organising a Charity Summit to provide local charities with a platform to showcase their work and offer students the opportunity to explore career opportunities in the sector. Charities will be able to host a stall, with information about their work, and what it's like to work for a nonprofit organisation. The aim is for the event to be cyclically beneficial, both for charities to showcase their work and recruit enthusiastic individuals, and for students to learn more about the sector and potential career routes. Whilst fundraising is not the primary focus, the organisers are happy for charities to collect donations at their stalls. If interested, please reach out to Zoë Wocha - zw2118@bath.ac.uk

Below is a selection of current funding opportunities available to charitable organisations across B&NES. The 19 opportunities below are listed in order of closing date, and separated into two sections; Local and National. Local Opportunities B&NES Health Inequalities Grant Funding 🪙 £25,000 - £50,000 This is an opportunity for local stakeholders to submit bids for funding to address prioritised health inequalities in Core20 areas and PLUS groups in BANES. This round of the Health Inequalities Funding will be awarding grants for projects which implement practical interventions that address one or more of the following priorities:  Adults   Low uptake of annual physical health checks for those with severe mental illness (SMI)  Children and Young People    Improving mental health in children and young people who are more at risk of developing poor mental health  Address over reliance in children and young people on asthma reliever medications and decrease the number of asthma attacks.  Deadline: 5pm on Friday 9th May 2025. Click here for the Guidance . Click here for the Q&A. Click here for the application form. Quartet Community Foundation - Megawatt Community Energy Fund Grant 🪙 £4,000 The fund is open to groups working in neighbouring South Gloucestershire, Bristol, North Somerset and Sedgemoor District. To support community action on reducing carbon in our atmosphere, and making energy more affordable (but you don't have to be an energy or environmental group). Priority given to small organisations with charitable aims. Deadline: Thursday 29th May 2025. Find Out More B&NES Community Contribution Fund 🪙 £500 - £1,000 The Council's Community Contribution Fund is a scheme for residents to pay into a 'good causes fund' to support local charity, community and voluntary groups and help reduce inequalities in the area. Funding is for new projects or activities that will both reduce inequality and benefit those over the age of 55.  This does not mean that intergenerational projects would be excluded. Any charity, voluntary or community organisation that operates for the benefit of residents in Bath and North East Somerset and is not for profit may apply. Deadline: 5pm on Friday 30th May 2025 . Find Out More. The Denham Charitable Trust - Small Grants 🪙 Around £2,000 Funding is available for small local charities in Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset and South Gloucestershire, for a diverse range of charitable causes, albeit with an emphasis on supporting charities working in the areas of health and disability. The trustees meet four times a year to review applications, with their next meeting scheduled for June. Deadline: Quarterly. Next deadline should be late May. Find Out More. The Harford Charitable Trust 🪙 Up to £2,000 Grants are available for small registered charities in the South West. The Trust’s principal areas of interest are: Children and families. People who are disadvantaged. People who are disabled, and Overseas projects, particularly environmental and self-help initiatives. Deadline: Ongoing. Find Out More. National Opportunities Youth Music Trailblazer Fund - The National Foundation for Youth Music 🪙 Between £2,000 - £30,000 Funding for UK constituted organisations to run projects for children and young people aged 25 and under to make, learn and earn in music.  Deadline: Friday 11th April 2025. Find Out More. Persimmon Charitable Foundation 🪙 £50,000 This funding is available for charities with a focus on social mobility and youth development, including learning and training. There will also be a second round of this funding opening in June. Deadline: 11:59pm on Sunday 13th April 2025. Find Out More Impetus - Skills 🪙 £100,000 in core, unrestricted funding for 1+ years Funding is for non-profit organisations supporting young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) into employment through skills. Deadline: 11:59pm on Thursday 17th April 2025. Find Out More Shoosmiths Foundation 🪙 Between £25,000 to £50,000 Funding is available for charities that work on increasing access to justice such as sustaining or improving community access to specialist legal advice and/or educational charities that offer pro bono programmes to increase access to justice. Deadline: Friday 18th April 2025 (may close early if sufficient applications received). Find Out More The Community Matters Fund (Future Skills) 🪙 £2,000 - £5,000 The grant is supporting groups that deliver focussed programs to develop the practical skills and improve employability levels for people furthest from the job market. A total of £250k is available. Open to groups in the West Country, Wales and the Midlands. Deadline: 5pm on Wednesday 23rd April 2025. Find Out More Shackleton Foundation 🪙 Up to £10,000 - £15,000 For aspiring social leaders across the UK, for early-stage social enterprises with long-lasting, far-reaching projects with the potential to provide solutions to intractable social problems faced by disadvantaged and socially marginalised young people. Deadline: Monday 28th April 2025. Find Out More. Main Grants Programme - The Leathersellers Foundation 🪙 Between £20,000 and £25,000 for 1 - 4 years Unrestricted Core Grants are available to UK registered charities to help prevent and tackle the consequences of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Eligible organisations will have an income over £200k but under £2m. Deadline: 5pm on Wednesday 30th April 2025. Find Out More. Home Instead 🪙 £500 - £1,500 Funding is available to support charities and community groups to deliver events, activities or pastimes that prevent social isolation and loneliness, and improve the lives of those aged 55+ across the UK. Applications are reviewed four times a year. Open to small grass roots organisations and small registered charities. Deadline: Wednesday 30th April 2025. Find Out More. Lloyds Bank Foundation - Local Collaborations Programme 🪙 Flexible grants of £100,000 over two years (with some opportunity for extension and further £50,000) Local collaborations led by small charities can apply for funding of £100,000 over two years to influence change around the social security system, accommodation, and support for asylum seekers and refugees. Deadline: Expressions of Interest are due by 5pm, Wednesday 30th April 2025. Full applications by Friday 22nd August 2025. Find Out More. The Goldsmiths' Foundation - Inaugural Grants Programme 🪙 £30,000 - £50,000 Funding is available for organisations that focus on vocational skills and training, working at the intersection of creativity and social change. Open to: Registered charities, CIOs, exempt and excepted under Charity Commission guidance, working in the field of craft, design or architecture. Deadline: 10am on Monday 5th May 2025. Find Out More WCIT Charity 🪙 Up to £15,000 UK registered charities, not-for-profit organisations and educational establishments can apply for innovative projects that use Information Technology to strengthen communities. Deadline: 5pm on Wednesday 7th May 2025. Find Out More. Big Give Women & Girls Match Fund campaign 🪙 Up to £100,000 a year for 10 years A match funding campaign for charities dedicated to serving women and girls. Those led by Black and minoritised women and girls, LGBTQUIA+ women and girls, or disabled women and girls will be prioritised. Deadline: Friday 30th May 2025 - Find Out More Here National Lottery Community Fund - Reaching Communities Fund 🪙 £20,001 or more, for up to five years Priorities for this funding include projects that support places, people or communities experiencing poverty, disadvantage or discrimination, and support people and communities to shape the decisions that affect their lives. Open to voluntary or community organisations in England. Deadline: Ongoing - Find Out More DCMS - Museum Estate and Development Fund and Libraries Improvement Fund 🪙 From £50,000 up to £5m The funding will support museums and libraries’ vital maintenance repairs and upgrades, ensuring they can continue to tell the story of our nation’s rich history and providing spaces for people from all walks of life to access books, work and learn Deadline: Unspecified. Expressions of interest open on May 12th 2025. Find Out More Groundwork - Community Builders' Fund 🪙 Loans of between £100,000 and £1.5m Charities and social enterprises across England may be eligible for this unrestricted fund for reasons such as reducing carbon emissions, energy cost savings, energy-efficient vehicles and equipment, and upgrading energy efficiency ratings. Organisations must be working to improve peoples' lives, or the environment they live in. Deadline: Unspecified - Find Out More More funding opportunities can be found via the BaNES Funding Finder - Click Here 3SG member organisations also benefit from free access to our Funds Online  account, allowing you to search a library of over 8,000 funders giving a combined total of £8 billion. If you're a member,  head to the Resources page here to find out more.  You can find out more about 3SG membership here , or get in touch via contact@3sg.org.uk