Supporting the community: The HPC Community Fund

The Hinkley Point C Community Fund continues to make a real difference in communities across Somerset.

It has awarded more than £16 million to charities, volunteer groups, councils and other organisations.

Managed by Somerset Community Foundation since late 2017, the fund helps local groups apply for grants that boost community wellbeing and make Somerset a better place to live.

Here are four recent grants that are having a lasting impact…

Bringing hospice care to patients’ homes

A grant of £132,294 was awarded to St Margaret’s Hospice to fund a community nurse dedicated to rural villages near Hinkley Point C.

For patients with life-limiting illnesses, particularly in remote areas with limited healthcare services, the hospice nurse has been a vital lifeline. The nurse provides at-home care, including pain management, referrals, and emotional support for both patients and their families, reducing the need for travel to GPs or other services.

One family member shared: “My husband is terminally ill with pancreatic cancer and travelling for appointments is a struggle. St Margaret’s Hospice is truly remarkable, providing not only help and support for patients, but for their families who need emotional support, too.”

Receiving dignified care at home, in familiar surroundings, makes a big difference for patients. Liam Cottrell, Grants and Major Gifts Manager at St Margaret’s Hospice, said: “We're deeply thankful for the generosity of the HPC Community Fund. Without funding like this, it just wouldn’t be possible for us to care for the 5,000+ people in our community whose lives we touch each year.”

Supporting fathers and strengthening communities

A grant of £150,000 is helping Home-Start West Somerset to support families, with a focus on fathers, in Sedgemoor and West Somerset.

Home-Start West Somerset offers support to families with young children through difficult times, giving them the skills and confidence to thrive.

Thanks to this grant, Home-Start West Somerset is hiring two new team members, including a ‘Dad Matters’ co-ordinator. This role will consist of metoring fathers to help them build stronger relationships with their children and families.

Building connections for adults with learning disabilities 

Loveable CIC received a £10,000 grant to launch a social connection project for adults with learning disabilities in Bridgwater.

The new project is designed to create the chance for individuals with learning disabilities and neurodivergent people to meet socially and explore romantic relationships.  Monthly events are held in local, accessible venues, where people can meet and build lasting friendships in a safe place.

These events not only help reduce feelings of isolation but also provide much-needed breaks from daily routines, improving wellbeing and mental health for participants.

Keeping North Petherton safe and connected

North Petherton Community Centre, a vital hub for the community, received a grant of £10,000 to repair and insulate their roof.

This much-loved community hub brings local people together and helps newer members of the community settle into their new home. The centre hosts a variety of events, clubs and social groups, and also serves as a safe space during emergencies.

The roof repairs will make the building safer and help save on energy costs, allowing the centre to invest these savings back into community programmes.

The grant will make a lasting difference by allowing the centre to keep bringing people together and fostering a strong sense of community pride.

APPLY FOR FUNDING
The HPC Community fund welcomes applications from registered charities, voluntary organisations, social enterprises, parishes and town councils. For more information, visit hpcfunds.co.uk.