Pride in Place - Small Grants Fund
Pride in Place is a 10-year government programme that gives money to local communities so they can improve their area. Beacon Lough and Wrekenton will receive £20 million over 10 years, and local people will decide what improvements matter most.
This fund gives up to £500 to local groups and businesses so they can get projects started and make a difference in their community.
Aims of the Small Grants Fund
The aims of the Small Grants Fund are to:
- help people take action in their local area
- bring communities together and improve wellbeing
- encourage more people to get involved and volunteer
- build stronger local connections
- make Beacon Lough and Wrekenton better places to live
Projects must meet at least one of the core objectives of the Pride in Place Programme:
- build stronger communities - improving cohesion, belonging and resilience
- create thriving places - strengthening local high streets, spaces, facilities and infrastructure
- empower residents - ensuring people have a real say in decisions and long-term planning
In short, it's about giving local people a bit of money to turn their ideas into real projects that improve their neighbourhood and bring people together.
How much you can apply for
- organisations can apply for a grant of up to £500
- the total allocation for the Small Grants Fund is £5,000
- applications open on 19 June 2026 and will close when £5,000 is allocated
- further rounds of funding may be available, depending on up-take
Who can apply
- funding is available to VCSE, public and private sector organisations based in Gateshead. Activities must benefit Beacon Lough and Wrekenton
- organisations must have a bank account, and financial processes in place to manage funding
- payments cannot be made to individuals
What can be funded
Eligible projects may include both revenue and capital funds, for example:
- community events and celebrations (for example summer fetes, community clean ups community walks)
- environmental improvements or planting schemes (for example painting, graffiti removal, repair work)
- youth activities or intergenerational projects
- arts, heritage or cultural projects
- equipment for local groups
- activities to address loneliness, health and wellbeing
- projects that help people feel safe and improve community cohesion
What cannot be funded
Funding is not available for the following purposes:
- core funding
- projects that do not benefit Beacon Lough and Wrekenton
- personal expenses that are not project related (if unsure, please ask for guidance)
- retrospective costs (events or equipment you've already purchased)
- political / religious activities
How to apply
- organisations must complete an application form
- applications will be reviewed and decisions on funding made by the Neighbourhood Board
- projects should be completed by 31 December 2026
- successful applicants must retain receipts and invoices to evidence spend and must complete a short report upon completion of the project
Further help and support
If you have any further questions regarding the grants, or need any help completing your application form, please contact [email protected].