What are Stronger Communities?
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We believe that Manchester's strength lies in its communities. Whether that's from Burnage to Baguley, Moston to Moss Side, or Hulme to Harpurhey - our communities make us strong. We have proudly supported them through our longest-standing fund, the Stronger Communities Fund, for over 10 years.
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The pandemic highlighted the importance of the community groups and local charities that offer vital support to Manchester’s residents. That why we've committed £200,000 to our Stronger Communities Fund in 2023/24 to reaffirm our support where it matters most.
Themes of the Fund
Nobody knows what's best for our communities better than the communities themselves. We listen to their ideas, and help where we can.
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Applications must meet at least one of the Fund’s core themes. We’re happy to discuss whether your project fits into our themes before application - just drop us an email at welovemcrcharity@manchester.gov.uk and we'll get back to you.
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HELPING IN THE EARLY YEARS – supporting children 0-4 years old, and their parents, to make the best start possible in terms of learning, health and/or nutrition
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COMBATING LONELINESS AND SOCIAL EXCLUSION – supporting groups of people who are at risk of exclusion from community life. For example as a result of advanced age or disability
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PROTECTING AND IMPROVING OUR OPEN SPACES – delivering work which ensures public spaces are maintained and improved for the benefit of local people, or expanding access to open spaces for all members of the community
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OFFERING POSITIVE YOUTH ACTIVITIES – providing sustainable, structured programmes/activities to help communities of young people to live safely and successfully
Awards
We've been providing local groups with the means to make a tangible difference in our communities for years - and we don't plan on stopping any time soon.
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We've selected a broad range of past groups we've awarded funds to below. Read their stories and press the area buttons to explore the activity we've funded across the many and varied communities of Manchester!
Applying
To make an application to the Stronger Communities Fund, you must be supporting or working with communities from within the City of Manchester 🔗. Applications from organisations supporting communities in Greater Manchester or beyond will not be considered.
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Please read the full guidance before making any application and contact us on email if you have any questions or want to discuss any aspect of your application.
Please send your completed application form, along with the supporting evidence required (listed on the application form) to us at welovemcrcharity@manchester.gov.uk . We will confirm receipt and get in touch with you if we have any questions or require any further information.
Our Trustees meet monthly to assess and make awards – please see the deadline dates for 2023 below.
Application
Form
Guidance Form
Terms & Conditions
Deadline Dates
