Community groups, charities, and non-profit organisations looking to make a positive impact in Farnham are invited to apply for grants of up to £2,500 from Farnham Town Council’s community grant programme. 

At the last Farnham Town Council meeting, Councillors agreed to increase the 2025/26 grant limit from £2,000 to £2,500 in recognition of inflationary pressures. 

Examples of applications which successfully attracted funding this year include the ongoing provision of specialist dyslexia assessments, tuition and courses for disadvantaged children and adults from lower-income backgrounds in Farnham and the surrounding villages by Helen Arkell Dyslexia charity, and a request from Farnham Assist for a grant to host an afternoon tea over the summer to combat loneliness and isolation in older people. 

In addition to the Community Grant pot, there is a dedicated fund which is earmarked for educational projects and initiatives related to the arts. Educational establishments and community groups can apply to the South Street Trust for a contribution towards innovative ideas for visual arts projects that require a creative input. 

In 2024/25 the South Street Trust funded a sculpture and mixed material artist-led workshop for 50 students from Farnham Heath End School; creative days and a celebratory event for young carers at Farnham Maltings, and workshops to create a totem pole with a ceramist at the Woodlarks Centre. 

Councillor Graham White, Spokesperson for Farnham Town Council says: “The Community Grant programme and South Street Trust Fund play a vital role in funding some truly wonderful opportunities that enhance our community in ways people might not otherwise experience. From cultural events to leisure activities, these projects bring people together, strengthen community spirit, and create lasting benefits for everyone in Farnham. It’s very rewarding to see the positive impact this funding has on improving the quality of life for our residents.”

The deadline for applying for both grants is 18 November. The community grants applications will be assessed by councillors from the Strategy and Resources committee on 14 January and the South Street Trust applications in January/March. Successful applicants will receive their grants in April/May 2025. 

More information about applying for a grant including the application form and grant criteria can be found at www.farnham.gov.uk/grants.