The Belong North East Fund has opened for applications, offering grants of up to £10,000 to charities and community organisations working to reduce isolation, tackle disadvantage and strengthen feelings of belonging across the North East.
Led by Point North and Community Foundation North East, and supported by The Mercers’ Charitable Foundation, the fund provides £300,000 of single‑year funding to back community‑led activity during 2026.
For organisations based in Gateshead, Newcastle, Northumberland, North Tyneside, South Tyneside and Sunderland, applications must be made via Community Foundation North East. Organisations based in County Durham or Tees Valley should apply through Point North.
Who the Fund Is For
The Belong North East Fund is aimed at charitable organisations with an annual income below £500,000. Larger organisations may apply if there is a strong case, but these will not be prioritised.
The fund is particularly relevant to charities working with:
- Older people experiencing loneliness or poverty
- Disadvantaged or disenfranchised communities
- Minority and marginalised groups
- People facing multiple disadvantages
- Rural communities across the North East
While the fund primarily targets communities in the 20% most deprived areas, it will also support work in other areas (up to the top 50% on the Index of Multiple Deprivation) where hardship or inequality may be less visible.
What Activities Can Be Funded
Projects must demonstrate how they will bring people together and build a sense of belonging. Funded activities may include work that:
- Brings together groups divided or excluded by race, culture, age or ability
- Supports communities affected by poverty or disenfranchisement
- Helps older people stay connected and engaged in their communities
- Delivers meaningful intergenerational activities
- Encourages greater community involvement among younger and older people
Applicants are expected to clearly identify which of these outcomes their project addresses.
Grant Size and What Funding Can Cover
Grants of up to £10,000 are available for both new and existing activities. The fund actively encourages full cost recovery, meaning funding can contribute towards core and running costs where these are essential to delivering the activity.
It is expected that 10–15 grants will be awarded across Tyne & Wear and Northumberland.
Key Dates and How to Apply
The application deadline is 31 May 2026.
Apply via the Community Foundation