Community Grants – Level 1
We recognise the fantastic work done by regional charities as well as grassroots, volunteer-led community projects. We have launched our Community Grants Scheme to show our support for those who work to help our customers’ communities thrive.
Under Level 1 of our Community Grants Scheme, we will be inviting applications from regional registered charity partners working to help improve outcomes for young people and celebrating and championing diversity and inclusion for young people in our region. Five partners will be chosen – one from each of our regional areas (Kent, East Sussex, West Sussex, Hampshire and IOW). The award for each partner will be a £10,000 donation and the building a 18 month-long partnership.
Please be aware that any information that we capture or that you provide on this form in relation to your contact details will not be treated as personally identifiable information and will not be covered by GDPR as we treat this as business contact information only. However, your information will be treated securely in line with our policies.
Applications are now closed. Successful applicants will be notified by 15 December 2022
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply for funding?
The grants scheme aims to provide ongoing support for five regional charities at Level 1.
We welcome applications for Level 1 funding support from:
- UK-registered charities which support communities in our area of operation (Kent, Sussex, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight)
- projects that benefit communities as opposed to individuals
- regional charities and community groups that can demonstrate projects that support improving outcomes for young people in our operational area
- organisations that can demonstrate a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
Are there any community groups and/or charities you are unable to support?
We are unable to accept applications from campaigning organisations or those whose services benefit solely a specific political or religious bias.
Which are the regions?
The grants are divided between the following regional funding pots:
- Kent
- West Sussex
- East Sussex
- Hampshire
- Isle of Wight
What are the criteria for projects you are looking to support?
We welcome applications from regional charities and community partners who would benefit from financial support to deliver sustainable projects that are supporting improved outcomes for young people including:
- Championing better equality and inclusion in our communities for young people
- Reducing barriers to employment across all age groups
- Raising aspirations and mentoring projects for young people
- Supporting young people who may be experiencing mental health challenges
Successful applications must also:
- deliver a project and demonstrate positive outcomes within 18 months
- demonstrate that the charity will be supported by funding or part funding of a project that supports our communities' needs
- be open to working with Southern Water and support our partnership criteria and provide accurate, timely and transparent outcomes, reporting throughout the process
- not apply for funds that exceed more than 10% of the charity’s total turnover
- undergo a validation check by the Charities Aid Foundation.
What is the application process?
- All applicants must complete the relevant application form on the Southern Water website.
- Please note these application forms should be completed in one go. All questions are visible.
- We operate to strict guidelines and cannot accept any applications received after Sunday 6 November 2022
- All applications will be assessed against the specified criteria of Southern Water’s steering group.
How will the decision-making process take place?
For registered charities looking for Level 1 funding of £10,000:
- The application window opens on 3 October 2022 and closes on 6 November 2022.
- Successful applicants will be notified by 15 December 2022
Who can I contact if I have questions?
If you have any questions or problems with the application forms please contact: [email protected] and we will try to answer your query. This contact inbox is monitored during usual office hours of Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm (excluding Bank Holidays).
Please note, we cannot change or alter a submitted application on your behalf.