The Community Investment Board (CIB) has opened its third round of funding, inviting Southend-based charities, community groups, and social enterprises to apply. The move follows a successful second round, in which the Board directed around £200,000 to 17 local initiatives across Southend.

The CIB is particularly keen to support projects that address increased demand for practical and social support for families struggling with basic needs, as well as initiatives that help reduce isolation and improve wellbeing.

Previous grants from CIB have already made a meaningful impact locally. One example is ATF’s The Hive Nature School, which has grown into an inclusive, welcoming space where children and parents connect, play, and learn together. An ATF team member said, “The investment from CIB has had a huge impact. We’ve been able to continue our well-attended sessions, improve The Hive, and access excellent training. It’s a joy to work here, we’ve met so many wonderful families and built a supportive, connected community.”

Another success story is Southend in Sight, whose drop-in sessions for blind and partially sighted residents have flourished thanks to CIB support. Lucy Martin, CEO of Southend in Sight, said, “Giving people the opportunity to chat with someone in a similar situation has truly improved wellbeing – we have never been so popular! Our thanks to the Community Investment Board for supporting us with this vital project.”

The upcoming funding round offers local organisations the chance to propose warm-space initiatives, family support programmes, food or clothing provision, social activities, wellbeing sessions, community drop-ins, and mental health support.

Benji Andrews, Community Funds Manager at SAVS, comments, “The Board’s core priorities; Thriving Communities, Opportunity for All, Tackling Inequity and Poverty, and Wellbeing for All, are perhaps more relevant now than ever. By continuing to fund grassroots, community-led responses, CIB aims to help neighbours support neighbours, foster social connection, and build resilience during what for many will be a difficult season.”

Applications are now open, giving Southend organisations the chance to make a lasting impact in their communities.