"Hinkley Point C is the biggest development that Somerset has ever seen. It’s making a big difference to the lives of many and is bringing so many new opportunities.”
Chief Executive, Somerset Community Foundation
Celebrating six years of impact
Since 2017, the HPC Community Fund has proudly granted a remarkable £15 million to support local projects and initiatives. Discover how this funding is making a meaningful difference.
From granting £1.25 million to the Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival to funding an £800 history publication for Sedgemoor, the HPC Community Fund has been making a real impact since it launched in November 2017.
Managed by Somerset Community Foundation, the fund awards grants to local projects and works to maximise the opportunities Hinkley Point C has to offer for residents.
The HPC Community Fund consists of two main programmes: the Small Grants Programme, offering grants of up to £10,000 over one year or £20,000 over three years, and the Open Grants Programme, for larger applications from charities, voluntary groups and social enterprises.
Numerous projects have already benefitted, including Bridgwater and Taunton Deaf Club’s monthly support sessions, music workshops for Dunster Festival, and the mental health organisation Seed of Hope CIC’s recovery through nature programme in Sedgemoor.
Inspirational summer
With support from the HPC Community Fund, Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge enjoyed a summer filled with open-air live performances, a flower festival and a free play day at Apex Park. Local community groups were presented with more than £55,000 to invigorate their outdoor events, which also helped The Avenue Tennis Club install energy-efficient floodlights, allowing evening use of the courts.
Rosie Pike, Chair of the Sedgemoor Playday Committee, said:
It’s important that local families can access green spaces and get involved in fun, physical activities. Our hope is to encourage children into joining clubs promoting health and wellbeing.
Energising a community church
Thanks to a £220,000 grant awarded in 2022, Bridgwater Baptist Church has undergone a renovation, and its new space is proving popular with local groups. Offices are in demand and the wellbeing café provides a welcoming and safe environment. A lift was also added for accessibility.
Reverend Tim Langdon said:
We’re keen to support start-up organisations that want to help the community. We’ve already seen a need for our enterprise hub, which has eight affordable offices.
Spotlight on Wembdon
Since 2018, Wembdon has received a total of £163,404 in grants for local initiatives – and the support is making a lasting impact. There have been improvements to the cricket club’s playing field, the rejuvenation of recreational woodlands, and the organisation of community cookery classes. This year, young people felt the benefits with a boost of almost £40,000 towards improved club facilities and accessible play equipment.
Anne Reed from Wembdon Parish Council said: “We’ve received positive feedback from the users of the accessible swings, and their families and carers. We’ve seen the swings used on a daily basis and it’s been wonderful to see children with health conditions or impairments playing on the purpose-built equipment.”
Did you know?
In 2022/2023, the HPC Community Fund was responsible for… 57 grants and £2.6m+ of new grants.
How to apply
Looking to receive support for your organisation or project? The HPC Community Fund welcomes applications from registered charities, voluntary organisations, social enterprises, parishes and town councils. For more information on a list of grant programmes, submission deadlines and how to apply, visit hpcfunds.co.uk.
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