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 latest news on BBC Midlands Today
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See our short video highlighting some of the projects we supported in 2023.
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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
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.”
Ruth Wharton, Comms, HR & Recruitment Manager, Sky Autism Support“SKY was delighted to receive a generous fund from #iWill … The greatest encouragement was the team spirit that blossomed as everyone played their part, whether big or small to make it happen!”
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.”
Worcester Film Festival“Your grant gave us the ability to push our festival further than ever before, bring more of the film industry to Worcestershire and to provide a nurturing and educational environment. We want to continue this outreach and grants like this go a long way to helping us achieve this and grow engagement by shining the positivity and potential of this industry into the areas that really need it.”
Bromsgrove and Redditch Welcome Refugees – Bob Jefford - Committee MemberThe grant has proved a valuable contribution to our running costs, allowing us to continue to provide support and activities to those in need, and to help them integrate into our communities.
Our Partners
