What is the Community Innovation Fund?
The Community Innovation Fund supports community‑led projects that promote inclusion, wellbeing, and positive social impact. It is designed to help ideas grow and to help make sure the benefits last long after the funding ends.
We back projects that are shaped with people who have lived experience of substance use, mental health, learning disabilities and autism, or sexual health and wellbeing. By co‑designing programmes together, we can create support that truly reflects what local people want and need.
We welcome applications from charities, organisations, and community groups based in areas where Turning Point provides services and who can demonstrate a connection to our teams.
What projects can the fund support?
Your project should contribute to creating fairer, healthier communities while helping people build wellbeing in everyday life.
Projects should focus on one or more of the themes below:
- Employment, Volunteering & Skills
Supporting people to learn, grow and access opportunities. - Social Connections & Community Participation
Helping people build relationships and feel part of their community. - Environment & Sustainability
Improving local spaces and encouraging pride, safety and connection to place. - Housing & Basic Living Standards
Making sure people have stability and the essentials they need to thrive. - Access to Health & Care Services
Removing barriers and helping people get the right support when they need it. - Healthy Lifestyles & Prevention
Promoting safer choices, wellbeing and early support. - Tackling Racism, Inequality & Stigma
Creating inclusive, welcoming communities where everyone is valued.
How do I complete an application?
You can submit your application in writing or as a video - using our application form below.
We have created a number of resources to support you to complete your application including an application guide and videos that give you guidance on how to answer each question.
Question 1
Tell us about your project idea
Question 2
Why is this project needed in your area?
Question 3
What benefits will your project bring to the community?
Question 4
How will you make sure your project is inclusive and reaches those who need it most?
Question 5
What are the main goals of your project?
Question 6
Describe how your project will create a lasting impact beyond the funding period.
Question 7
How will you identify and manage risks to ensure people are safe?
Question 8
How will you monitor and evaluate your project to ensure it meets its goals?
Apply for the Community Innovation Fund
Please remember to download and complete the Budget Sheet template and email it to [email protected] with the title of your project as the email subject.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
- Turning Point services
- Registered charities, community groups, not‑for‑profits
- Applicants must be based in areas where Turning Point provides services
Applicants must have:
- A signed constitution
- Dual‑authorisation bank account
- 12 months of accounts
- Active board
- Safeguarding policy
What costs are not funded?
We do not fund: projects outside TP areas, unrelated core wages, overheads, capital purchases, completed activities, alcohol‑promoting activity, political/religious activity, overseas travel, fundraising, profit‑making activity and evaluation/reporting costs.
Facilitation costs must be ≤20% unless justified.
When will I hear back?
If you do not hear from us within 2 weeks of the application deadline, please assume your application was not shortlisted.
Can I apply more than once?
Yes, but priority is given to applicants who have not received a grant in the past 12 months.
How can I get in contact?
For general queries or to learn more please contact us at: [email protected]