There’s an opportunity for us to invest in the life of our church and the wider community.
The Common Ground Award 2026 to 2027 is now open, with applications closing on 12 October.
- Application opens: 14 September 2026 to 12 October 2026
- Expected notification: December 2026
- Likely payment: January 2027
- Funding expenditure deadline: 31 March 2027 (fully costed plan with delivery plan and milestones)
The Common Ground Award is funded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). It is designed to help voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations across England create places and opportunities where people from different backgrounds can come together, build relationships and develop a stronger sense of belonging.
Our church buildings can be places of worship, but they can also be places of friendship, hospitality, conversation, learning, support and connection. This funding could help us think creatively about what might enable even more people to share in that life, and particularly where there are currently barriers to participation, or opportunities we are unable to provide because of our existing facilities.
The fund has £2.5 million available nationally. Individual organisations can normally apply for between £20,000 and £50,000, with awards of up to £100,000 possible in exceptional circumstances. Two or more independent organisations can also apply together as a consortium, with grants of £100,000 to £250,000 available where working in partnership would enable greater reach and impact.
For a church or community venue, it can be helpful to think of this as an investment in the infrastructure that brings people together, rather than simply a grant to improve a building.
A strong application will show how the venue is already being used as a shared community space, bringing together people from different groups, backgrounds and experiences. It should also demonstrate how the proposed investment could help remove barriers, increase capacity or create new opportunities for people to connect and take part.
The improvements to the building, facilities or equipment are therefore a means to a bigger and more positive end. The scheme creates the opportunity to strengthen relationships, encourage greater understanding, create new connections and partnerships, and make the community more welcoming and inclusive. Investment in the physical space can help make all of this possible.
Common Ground Award 2026 to 2027: prospectus →
