Funding Differently is a collaboration between Community Southwark, Partnership Southwark, United St Saviour’s Charity and the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) in Southwark.
Together, we delivered a grants process that tackles funding challenges raised in Community Southwark’s State of the Sector research and places small charities and community groups at the heart of decision-making.
The VCS designed the process – via the state-of-the-sector research and focus groups in April 2023 and September 2023. VCS groups are also the decision-makers about how funds are distributed.
The grant seeks to reduce health inequalities at a targeted neighbourhood level through strengthening small, local VCS groups.
Reflections from the Journey
In November 2024, groups involved in Funding Differently over the past two years came together to reflect on the process, its impact, and the road ahead. Their feedback highlighted:
- The positive impact of a flexible, inclusive funding approach that has empowered small VCS groups and strengthened the communities they serve.
- Suggestions for refining the process to ensure it continues to meet the evolving needs of the sector.
- Groups are excited for Funding Differently to continue and encourage Community Southwark to champion this approach and welcome more funders to join.
You can read the summary of the session HERE.
For more information on Funding Differently, please visit: https://communitysouthwark.org/update-on-funding-differently-2024-neighbourhood-health-grants/
We’re grateful to everyone who joined the reflection session for their honest insights and contributions. Together, we’re shaping the future of funding to be fairer, simpler, and more impactful.
Questions or feedback?
Contact Gosia – gosia@communitysouthwark.org or Katherine – katherine@communitysouthwark.org
