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
St Paul’s Hostel – Annamarie Brant, Fundraising Officer“We are extremely grateful for the support we receive. We are delighted to have been successful with this funding grant and are able to offer more services to further meet the needs of this vulnerable client group. It is wonderful to see the impact of such funding in such a short time and warming to see the engagement of our participants. Offering something new enables us to reach some that would not have engaged otherwise.”
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.”
Mrs Reeves-Walters Executive Head Teacher at Far Forest Primary School“We are thrilled that our pupils have had the opportunity to create a stunning piece of artwork supported by the ‘Let’s Create Jubilee Fund’ to commemorate the Queen’s Jubilee. This will remain in our school for many years to come. The PTA have been instrumental in ensuring our children have this experience to develop their skills and work together. It now takes pride of place in our School.”
Helen Gill, CEO, The Monday Night Club“We are immensely grateful for Worcestershire Community Foundation’s unwavering support and genuine interest in our charity. WCF’s interest in our work, their responsiveness, and their belief in our vision have been instrumental in our success. We look forward to continuing our partnership and are truly fortunate to have such a supportive ally in Worcestershire Community Foundation. Thank you for being a vital part of our journey toward a more inclusive and vibrant community.”
Sandycroft – Lee Olivia McKenzie, CEOAs usual the level of support we have received has always been supportive and helpful, We feel that every effort is made to help organisations with advice and guidance. WCF has been very accessible and gives you the time to feel heard and encouraged.
Our Partners
