Council Tax precept

Councils can hold a referendum to increase council tax to raise funds. For example, Gloucestershire held a local referendum to allow council tax to be increased to raise funds for investment in additional drainage and maintenance work after the 2007 floods. Cockermouth residents also agreed to pay an extra levy on their Council Tax over three […]


Home equity loans/refinancing

Property owners who have equity within their properties can release this money through extending their current mortgage or taking out a new mortgage.  The money can then be used to fund property level flood resilience measures. Equity release can be in the form of an additional income, a cash lump sum, or both. The Money […]


Community Interest Company (CIC)

In order to gain funding from a variety of sources you may need to become a Community Interest Company (CIC). The level of community involvement varies, some CICs depend on the input of the community whereas others undertake actions on their behalf. Case Study Example: A community-led partnership was formed by Bucklebury residents with support from […]


Community Foundation

This needs to be led by the local community and aims to benefit the whole community. The grant size is variable but is likely to be less than £10,000.


Home equity loans/refinancing

Property owners who have equity within their properties can release this money through extending their current mortgage or taking out a new mortgage.  The money can then be used to fund property level flood resilience measures. Equity release can be in the form of an additional income, a cash lump sum, or both. The Money […]


Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI)

This is a loan granting mechanism. Community Development Finance Institutions provide loans where banks have refused credit. Their website lists loan providers who consider individuals, businesses, charities or social enterprises. The level of funding provided depends on individual circumstances. Funds can be released quickly.


Community Foundation

This needs to be led by the local community and aims to benefit the whole community. The grant size is variable but is likely to be less than £10,000.


Charitable Trusts

A Charitable Trust can be established with the specific purpose of dealing with and managing contributions for a particular cause or project. The Trust does not procure funds, but it is a mechanism for obtaining, holding and administering funds. Funds can be collected from the community/general public and is administered and allocated by the Trust. […]


Housing Associations/Groups

This funding is normally applied for by a group of residents (e.g. residents association).  Grants vary but are usually less than £10,000.  Housing associations do fund community enhancement projects.  For example Orbit Heart of England offers small grants of between £500 to £5,000 but these cannot benefit individuals. The enhancements must benefit communities belonging to […]


Charitable Trusts

A Charitable Trust can be established with the specific purpose of dealing with and managing contributions for a particular cause or project. The Trust does not procure funds, but it is a mechanism for obtaining, holding and administering funds. Funds can be collected from the community/general public and is administered and allocated by the Trust. […]