Building Society increases grant offer due to cost-of-living crisis

Leeds Building Society Foundation has launched a funding programme, offering charities grants of between £25,000 to £100,000.

The funding offer has been announced as Leeds Building Society chief executive Richard Fearon said it had more tripled its donation to the Foundation, from £90,000 to £300,000 a year, due to the impact of the cost-of-living crisis.

The grants are being made available to charities in the Yorkshire/Humberside and North East regions and can cover up to three years core project or capital costs.

The close date for applications is 31 October, with further funding rounds scheduled for March, June and September 2023.

This large grant programme is in addition to the funder’s small grants programme, offering up to £1,000.

The funder is looking to back charities that align to its aims of supporting people in need of housing as well as health, accessibility, education, advice, security, refuge and alleviating financial stress.

“We believe everyone deserves the right to a safe and secure home, and we welcome applications from charities who are providing essential support to the most vulnerable people in society,” said Foundation chair Gary Hetherington.

“If your organisation is delivering practical refuge through temporary accommodation, advice and advocacy for those at risk of homelessness, support to keep people in their own homes or another essential service that aligns with our purpose, then it may certainly be worthwhile applying to us for a grant.”