We hope you’re having a successful summer and continuing to make a positive difference in your communities. This month’s newsletter highlights funding opportunities, practical advice, and resources that may be useful for micro-enterprises and self-employed care.

Tip: Prepare for Autumn Demand

Many people begin reviewing care and support arrangements after the summer holidays. Now is a good time to:

✅ Review your directory listing and website

✅ Gather new testimonials and reviews

✅ Check your insurance and policies are up to date

✅ Consider any training needs for the coming months

✅ Connect with other local providers for collaboration opportunities

Small changes now can help generate enquiries later in the year!

Training & Professional Development

Continuous learning can help strengthen your enterprise and improve quality. Consider exploring:

Safeguarding updates
Dementia awareness
Autism and neurodiversity training
Mental health awareness
Digital skills and online marketing
Outcome-focused care and support planning

Even short courses can add value to your service and help you stand out.

Funding Opportunities

National Lottery Awards for All

Offers grants from £300 to £20,000 for projects that strengthen communities and improve people’s lives. Community groups, CICs and some social enterprises may be eligible. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Further information Here

The Fore

Provides unrestricted funding of up to £45,000 for small charities and social enterprises with income under £500,000. Funding can be used to support organisational growth, sustainability, staffing, or development. Further information Here

Local Community Foundation Grants

Most areas across the UK have Community Foundations offering small grants, often between £1,000 and £10,000, for projects supporting local people, reducing isolation, improving wellbeing, and strengthening communities.

Cost of Living and Community Support Funds

Many local authorities and community foundations continue to offer grants aimed at:

Tackling loneliness and isolation
Supporting older people
Community wellbeing activities
Advice and support services
Helping vulnerable residents cope with rising living costs

Check your local Community Foundation or council website for opportunities.

Funding for Digital Development

Many funders are increasingly supporting:

Website development
Digital inclusion projects
Assistive technology
Online marketing and communications
Digital skills training
When applying for grants, demonstrating how technology will improve outcomes for people using your service can strengthen applications.

Funding Tip

Don’t assume you’re too small to apply. Many funders actively want to support micro-enterprises, CICs and community organisations because of their local knowledge, flexibility and ability to provide highly personalised support. Before dismissing a funding opportunity, check the eligibility criteria carefully. Small organisations are often exactly who funders want to reach.