Funding Differently is a unique collaboration between Community Southwark, Partnership Southwark, United St Saviour’s Charity, and Southwark’s Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS).
Together, we’ve reimagined grant-making – shifting power to small charities and community groups and addressing key issues raised in Community Southwark’s State of the Sector research.
Over the past two years, 50 grants of £5,000 and £10,000 have been awarded – totalling £300,000 – to small charities, community groups and grassroots organisations across the borough. We are delighted that Partnership have agreed funding of £200,000 for 2025/26.
Last week, we brought VCS groups together to plan the next phase of Funding Differently. The session was also attended by Council, NHS and funder representatives, who came to listen and learn from the sector.
Together, we agreed key funding priorities and principles for the year ahead and beyond – shaped by those who know Southwark’s communities best. Read the full planning session summary HERE – a summary of key decisions made is on page 3.
Funding Differently enters its third year this September, continuing to show that shared power and local insight lead to better funding decisions. Applications reopen on 1st September 2025, with more details to follow.
If you’re a charity or community group in Southwark and would like support with your application, please contact Louis at louis@communitysouthwark.org. He’s available now and throughout the application window – we recommend getting in touch early for the best support.