Deadline: November 21, 2025
The UK government has launched the Common Ground Award to invest up to £50,000 in voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations across England that bring people from different backgrounds together through capital funding for facilities and equipment.
The Common Ground Award aims to identify and reward good practice in building bridging social capital, invest in the physical spaces and equipment that enables good practice, and build a community of practice for knowledge sharing across the voluntary and community sector and with government.
The initiative seeks to strengthen the bonds that hold society together, which are increasingly challenged by divisive forces such as political polarisation, declining trust, social isolation, and economic insecurity. These vital connections are nurtured locally by VCSE organisations that promote inclusivity and social connection. The award not only recognises these organisations but also supports them financially to enhance their impact through capital investment. Successful organisations will receive up to £10,000 in capital grants, with the possibility of exceptional awards up to £50,000 based on high assessment scores and strong justification.
The funding can be used for constructing, refurbishing, or expanding facilities that promote social cohesion or for purchasing essential equipment such as laptops or furniture. Organisations must specify the funding required and ensure it is committed for spending by 31 March 2026. Grant funding will be formalised through a grant agreement, and the final awarded amount may be lower than requested.
Eligible applicants include VCSE organisations based and operating in England with charitable, benevolent, or philanthropic purposes, such as registered charities, charitable incorporated organisations, companies limited by guarantee, community interest companies, community benefit societies, and unincorporated community groups meeting governance and financial requirements. Ineligible applicants include local authorities, public sector bodies, profit-distributing entities, individuals, and regulated educational institutions.
Award recipients will also join a community of practice to share experiences and collaborate with peers and government stakeholders to advance social cohesion. Additionally, organisations not selected or those who did not apply will have opportunities to engage in future activities, ensuring diverse representation in ongoing discussions.
For more information, visit GOV.UK.
