Council confirms long-term community grants to give local groups stability during time of change

Councillor Rachel Crouch, Executive Member for Stronger, Healthy Communities, said: “We know there is uncertainty around Local Government Reorganisation, and that can feel unsettling for community groups who rely on funding to plan ahead. That is why we are acting now. By committing to a new three-year programme, we are giving organisations the stability and confidence they need to keep supporting residents and building stronger communities.” 

The Council’s Community Grants are delivered through three-year Service Level Agreements. These agreements provide longer-term funding so organisations can plan properly, invest in staff and volunteers, and focus on helping residents rather than worrying about short-term funding. 

The current agreements run until 2027 and support local projects that improve wellbeing, protect nature and respond to the climate emergency. 

Funding will be awarded to organisations whose work supports the Council’s priorities. To make this clear, the programme will be organised into three funding lots: Climate Resilience, Nature Recovery and Community Wellbeing. This will help ensure projects are aligned with local needs and deliver real benefits for residents. 

In November 2025, the Council’s Executive agreed to commission and fund a further three-year programme. Work will now begin to ensure the next round of Service Level Agreements is ready to start in April 2027, when the current agreements end. 

By planning early, the Council is ensuring there is no gap in support. This means local groups can continue to deliver services, support vulnerable residents and develop new ideas with confidence, despite future changes to council structures. 

The new programme will fund projects that create sustainable communities, restore and protect nature, and improve health and wellbeing. This could include work to reduce flooding risk, cut carbon emissions, improve access to green spaces, tackle loneliness, or support people’s mental health. 

Full details of the scheme and criteria will follow when the scheme officially opens later this year. 

Voluntary and community organisations are at the heart of West Oxfordshire. By confirming its commitment to long-term Service Level Agreements now, the Council is providing reassurance and practical support so communities and the vital services they provide can continue to thrive.