What we do
We are a charitable hub for the whole county – dedicated to helping to ensure that Worcestershire is a better place to live and work. We are passionate in supporting communities to not just survive but thrive. We champion local causes, raise funds and provide a voice for the voluntary and community sector. We are part of a network of 47 national place-based Community Foundations which provide invaluable support to communities all over the UK by raising and giving out substantial funds every year. Over the past 30 years, our network has given out grants of over £1 billion to causes that really need help.
See our short video highlighting some of the projects we supported in 2023.
Click here to view.
About WCF
We are an independent charity which strengthens local communities by providing funding for community-led projects throughout Worcestershire.
WCF was established in 2003 to help people and organisations give to essential causes where there is real need. We work with funders to deliver innovative funding programmes to charities and community groups.
Our knowledge of the sector means that we know where funding can make or break a community initiative; we like to make greater impact by supporting smaller, lesser known charities who often struggle to be financially sustainable, ensuring our awards create lasting change.
Our Impact
£ 2308100 +
Total grants
(2020/2023)
£ 808091
Total grants (2022/2023)
£ 4927
Average Grant size
164 +
Number of grants
(2022/2023)
We hold funds which give out grants to support areas of the county that really need help. We work with leading social impact organisations and delivery groups to target our funding and make maximum impact. We currently distribute funds which:
- Support isolated older people in rural areas
- Help young people become empowered and engaged with their local community
- Support women and girls in challenging circumstances who wish to regain control of their lives
- Help people facing mental health issues
- Support arts delivery and innovative cultural projects
- Support local sports clubs and organisations to empower people to become more active and improve their wellbeing
- Support positive initiatives to develop community cohesion or address early-stage crime prevention
- Support vulnerable families during economic crisis and provide vital supplies (including food & goods)
- Support work in areas of disability, poor health, abuse, homelessness, isolation, minority groups, poverty & fuel poverty, refugees, schools, veterans and volunteer networks.
Testimonials
Yellow Scarf – Inclusive Communities Fund grantee“With the invaluable support from WCF, our ‘Multinational Walk and Talk’ project has become a beacon of community unity. Together, we’re fostering friendships, dispelling myths, and reducing social isolation. The positive impact is palpable, creating resilient and connected Eastern European communities in Worcestershire. WCF’s commitment to community empowerment has been transformative, making a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.”
Helen Gill, CEO The Monday Night ClubOur partnership with Worcestershire Community Foundation has been an overwhelmingly positive experience. Their unwavering support and guidance throughout the grant period have played a pivotal role in the success of our initiatives. WCF’s commitment to community development aligns seamlessly with our mission, fostering a collaborative and impactful relationship. Their responsiveness, transparent communication, and dedicated assistance have strengthened our organisational capacity. We commend WCF for their instrumental role in empowering communities, and we look forward to continued collaboration as we strive to make a lasting difference in people’s lives.”
Wyre Forest and South Worcestershire Nightstop and Mediation Service – Judith Ford, CEO“Our involvement with WCF has been extremely positive – communication has been timely and the application process was clear.”
PCC Secretary St Mary’s Pickersleigh“Support from the WCF Communities in Crisis Grant has meant that St Mary’s has been able to continue its work in the local Community in 2023 without worrying about how to find the increased money for the fuel bills both at the beginning of the year and as we head towards the winter months again. As a church community made up completely of volunteers, we feel well supported.”
Like U“We have nothing but praise for WCF. You are the first ones that believed in us, and you were the initial push we needed to succeed. We will never forget what you’ve done for us, and we really hope this is not the end of our journey.”
Our Partners
