What we do
We are a charitable hub for the whole county – dedicated to helping to ensure that Worcestershire is a better place to live and work. We are passionate in supporting communities to not just survive but thrive. We champion local causes, raise funds and provide a voice for the voluntary and community sector. We are part of a network of 47 national place-based Community Foundations which provide invaluable support to communities all over the UK by raising and giving out substantial funds every year. Over the past 30 years, our network has given out grants of over £1 billion to causes that really need help.
See our short video highlighting some of the projects we supported in 2023.
Click here to view.
About WCF
We are an independent charity which strengthens local communities by providing funding for community-led projects throughout Worcestershire.
WCF was established in 2003 to help people and organisations give to essential causes where there is real need. We work with funders to deliver innovative funding programmes to charities and community groups.
Our knowledge of the sector means that we know where funding can make or break a community initiative; we like to make greater impact by supporting smaller, lesser known charities who often struggle to be financially sustainable, ensuring our awards create lasting change.
Our Impact
£ 2308100 +
Total grants
(2020/2023)
£ 808091
Total grants (2022/2023)
£ 4927
Average Grant size
164 +
Number of grants
(2022/2023)
We hold funds which give out grants to support areas of the county that really need help. We work with leading social impact organisations and delivery groups to target our funding and make maximum impact. We currently distribute funds which:
- Support isolated older people in rural areas
- Help young people become empowered and engaged with their local community
- Support women and girls in challenging circumstances who wish to regain control of their lives
- Help people facing mental health issues
- Support arts delivery and innovative cultural projects
- Support local sports clubs and organisations to empower people to become more active and improve their wellbeing
- Support positive initiatives to develop community cohesion or address early-stage crime prevention
- Support vulnerable families during economic crisis and provide vital supplies (including food & goods)
- Support work in areas of disability, poor health, abuse, homelessness, isolation, minority groups, poverty & fuel poverty, refugees, schools, veterans and volunteer networks.
Testimonials
Worcestershire For the Love of Scrubs“Our thanks for the fantastic donation you were able to make when we were at a time of greatest need.”
Dawn Turner, CEO Stepway“It has given people an alternative path away from crime. It has not only improved mental wellbeing but has saved lives too.”
Tomasz Jareki, Director Midlands Migrant Support Centre“The funding provided by Worcestershire Community Foundation has been instrumental in enabling our organisation to make a positive impact on the Ukrainian refugee community. The services, support, and initiatives we were able to provide have empowered individuals, improved their wellbeing and enhanced their integration into the local community. We are committed to continuing our work and are deeply grateful for the Foundation’s ongoing support.”
Mrs Reeves-Walters Executive Head Teacher at Far Forest Primary School“We are thrilled that our pupils have had the opportunity to create a stunning piece of artwork supported by the ‘Let’s Create Jubilee Fund’ to commemorate the Queen’s Jubilee. This will remain in our school for many years to come. The PTA have been instrumental in ensuring our children have this experience to develop their skills and work together. It now takes pride of place in our School.”
Yellow Scarf – Inclusive Communities Fund grantee“With the invaluable support from WCF, our ‘Multinational Walk and Talk’ project has become a beacon of community unity. Together, we’re fostering friendships, dispelling myths, and reducing social isolation. The positive impact is palpable, creating resilient and connected Eastern European communities in Worcestershire. WCF’s commitment to community empowerment has been transformative, making a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.”
Our Partners
