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What is the Community Chest fund and who can apply?

Financial assistance of up to £1,000 is available to applicants to the Community Chest fund throughout the year, subject to funds being available. The Mayor has authority to award grants from the Community Chest fund, based on set eligibility criteria. 

In order to manage applications/awards in a timely fashion, applications can be submitted as follows:

  • Quarter 1: 01 April  - 31 May for consideration in June
  • Quarter 2: 01 July - 31 August for consideration in September
  • Quarter 3: 01 October – 30 November for consideration in December
  • Quarter 4: 01 January – 28 February for consideration in March 

Applications submitted after the closing date will be considered in the next quarter.

By supporting local organisations with grants from the Community Chest fund, we can help improve the quality of life for the Borough’s residents. This helps us to achieve the goals set out in our Corporate Plan.

Eligibility criteria

Please read the eligibility criteria for the Community Chest fund (PDF) to ensure that you can apply.

Before you start – information and documents you will need

Please make sure you have the following information / documents ready:

  • A set of rules / Constitution / Memorandum and articles of association or other governing document (if you have one).
  • Your equal opportunities policy (if you have one).
  • Your child protection / vulnerable adults’ policy (if you have them).
  • Your environmental policy (or evidence you are working toward it), if you have one.
  • Financial information.
  • Information about your staff, such as how many direct staff and volunteers you have.
  • Information about your objectives.

Apply online for Community Chest funding

Please use the form below to apply for Community Chest funding. The form will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. 

To make your application you need a Council Services account. If you already have a Council Services account, use the button below to login and apply for Community Chest funding.

By submitting the form you agree that you have read and understood how we process your personal data.

Apply for Community Chest funding

Alternatively, please register for a Council Services account then return to this page to make your application. 

If you wish to discuss your application, please email CommunityChest@bedford.gov.uk.

Can’t complete your application in one go?

You will be able to save your application if you are unable to complete it in one go. You will need to go to your Council Services account to resume and complete your application.