Together Liverpool is inviting local faith and community groups to explore funding through the Near Neighbours Small Grants programme.
Grants of £1,000–£6,000 are available to help local communities build connections and work together. Applications close on 30 November 2026.
The fund supports projects that bring neighbours from different faiths, ethnicities and backgrounds together, helping people get to know one another and make their neighbourhood a better place to live.
This year, we’re looking for projects involving two or more organisations or groups from different faiths, ethnicities or backgrounds working together. Projects should explore shared experiences or cross-cultural themes, such as health and wellbeing, caring responsibilities, education or employment.
We’re particularly keen to hear from small community organisations and emerging local groups, including those with a strong volunteer base. People from different backgrounds should be involved in planning and running the project, with opportunities for friendships and collaboration to continue beyond the funding.
What funding is available?
- Grants of £1,000–£6,000 for new or developed projects.
- The total project cost must be £15,000 or less.
- One-off events can be considered for grants of up to £1,000.
- Funded activity should be planned for March–June 2027 and must finish by 30 June 2027.
Funding cannot support the straightforward repetition of existing activities, activities promoting a particular faith, or activities open only to one faith or ethnic group.
Interested? Start with a conversation
You don’t need a fully developed proposal to get in touch. We can help you explore your idea, check whether your project is in an eligible area, identify potential partners and work through the application process.
All applicants must speak to their local Near Neighbours Coordinator before completing an application. For support through the Liverpool hub, contact:
- Joseph Cottrell: joseph.cottrell@togetherliverpool.org.uk
The application deadline is 11.59pm on Monday 30 November 2026. Applicants are expected to hear the outcome in February 2027.
Previous local Near Neighbours grant recipients:
- Lauda Project at St Dunstan’s Church, Kensington – Women’s fitness group – watch our Stories of Kindness video below!
- Live Better Liverpool CIC – “The Clay Kitchen Project”- Cooking and pottery classes for young people – watch our Stories of Kindness video below!
- Christ Church Toxteth Park – Eco Church gardening group
- The Hope Foundation – Community Welcome Hub, a community cafe for a diverse community – watch our Stories of Kindness video below!
- Gateway Collective – 10-Year celebration event for the Gateway Collective garden & social enterprise
- Hope Church Kensington – Wellbeing and skills development for members of their pantry
Watch our Stories of Kindness video about how the Lauda Project launched a Women’s Fitness Group, with Near Neighbours funding:
Watch our Stories of Kindness video about how Live Better Liverpool CIC’s Clay Kitchen course supported young people aged 16 to 25 develop practical cooking skills, with Near Neighbours funding:
Watch our first Stories of Kindness video, about the Hope Community Fridge at Hope Church Kensington, which later also secured Near Neighbours grant:
If your group has an idea for bringing neighbours together, we’d love to hear from you.
Near Neighbours is administered by Church Urban Fund and funded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, working with people of all faiths and none
