Pilot Volunteering Small Grant Programme Moves Closer To Approval

Councillors have backed plans for a new small grants scheme to support the volunteering community in recruiting, supporting, and recognising volunteers, as part of the Grant Funding Programmes for 2026–27.

The Pilot Volunteering Small Grant Programme was presented to the Leisure & Development Committee on this evening, where members approved the report, with the proposals now set to be ratified at full council.

The scheme is intended to help community, voluntary and sporting organisations recruit, support and recognise volunteers. When ratified by full council, £20,000 will be allocated within the Leisure & Development Directorate budget for 2026–27. The maximum grant available to each organisation will be £1,000.

Under the proposals, funding could support volunteer recognition events, recruitment campaigns, travel costs, protective clothing such as gardening gloves or uniforms, and accredited training including first aid, safeguarding and food hygiene.

To be eligible, organisations must have an annual income below £100,000 and show how their project meets at least one of three objectives: increasing participation from under-represented Section 75 groups, involving new volunteers in meaningful roles, or delivering a tangible benefit to the local community.

Groups identified as under-represented include those not in paid employment, people aged over 65, young people under 25, people with disabilities and individuals from minority ethnic backgrounds.

Opening and closing dates for the scheme have not yet been announced.

Speaking at this evening’s council meeting, Councillor Tanya Elder expressed her support for the volunteer funding, stating: "I just wanted to express my full support for the volunteer funding. Volunteers are invaluable to community organisations — I see it every single day. They’re the scaffolding that keeps vital services running. It’s fantastic to see this small volunteer-grant programme receiving such strong support across the chamber tonight."