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 (UKCF) which provide invaluable support to communities all over the UK by raising and giving out substantial funds every year. In the last 50 years, community foundations in UKCF’s network have collectively distributed just over £2.1 billion to grassroots projects and initiatives across the UK and Jersey.
See our latest news on BBC Midlands Today
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See our short video highlighting some of the projects we supported in 2023.
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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
£ 2925638 +
Total grants
(2020-Jan 2025)
£ 617539
Total grants
(Apr 2023-Jan 2025)
£ 6640
Average Grant size
93 +
Number of grants
(Apr 2023-Jan 2025)
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
Droitwich Spa and Rural Council for Voluntary Service“Thank you for this funding which has afforded many people opportunities to leave their homes, meet in a safe place and feel valued which has increased their confidence and wellbeing. All of the initiatives have reduced feelings of anxiety. Smiles from people are worth a more than words.”
Kate Cox, Director Worcester Paint Festival“Worcester Paint Festival is so thankful to WCF for the grant for our 2023 event. You enabled us to deliver a highly successful year of murals and the amazing exhibition ‘Paint the Streets about UK graffiti and street art history. This was visited by a very different demographic from across the UK and further, and received very positive feedback.”
Chairman, Worcestershire Symphony Orchestra“Your charity’s grant monies acted as a wonderful foundation of trust on which we built an event that was totally unforgettable.”
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.”
Oasis Warndon Community Hub“The support of the Worcestershire Community Foundation has allowed a real emergence of community empowerment, engagement and collaborative participation. The Get Set Grow project will impact this community intergenerationally and allow a safe space to learn, grow and provide for the future.”
Our Partners
