Funding Differently is a collaboration between Community Southwark, Partnership Southwark, United St Saviour’s Charity, and the local Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS).
Originally launched as a pilot in 2023/24, the initiative is now in its second year, having distributed 30 grants in 2024/25—20 grants of £5,000 and 10 of £10,000.
Our latest impact and learning report captures powerful insights from the Funding Differently grants, showcasing their impact on small charities and community groups and the communities they support. By simplifying funding, trusting local organisations, and investing in long-term sustainability, we’re driving real change and tackling health inequalities in Southwark.
This partnership puts local charities at the heart of decision-making, breaking down funding barriers and shifting power to those making a real difference on the ground.
Download the full report here: Funding differently 2024-25 Impact and Learning Report
What happens next?
- We are sharing this report with funders and the statutory sector in Southwark to highlight the impact of community-led funding and encourage greater investment in local initiatives.
- Funders are invited to support Funding Differently in 2025/26 by contributing to a collaborative funding pot that directly benefits locally led charities and community groups.
- Although funding for 2025/26 is not yet confirmed, we will keep everyone informed and continue working to secure long-term investment for Southwark’s VCS.
A huge thank you to United St Saviour’s Charity and Partnership Southwark for their invaluable partnership in this work.
We’re also incredibly grateful to the VCS groups involved this year—your engagement, feedback, and expertise have been key to shaping a grants model rooted in trust, collaboration, and real impact!
For further information, please contact Katherine de Kretser, Projects Team Manager: katherine@communitysouthwark.org
