Calling community groups – last chance to make your dreams come true 

Community groups and organisations in Dorset have until 5 June to apply for a share of £135,000 to help make dreams come true.  

Dorset Council has launched this year’s round of UKSPF (UK Shared Prosperity) funding for community organisations and voluntary groups. 

Applicants can apply for between £5,000 to £15,000 but will need to secure a minimum of 20% of their project costs with the council providing up to 80%.

And if you want to be like The Blackmore Vale Charity in Sturminster Newton or the North Dorset Beekeepers Association, apply now. 

The Blackmore Vale Charity received £15,000 in the last round of SPF funds towards its family hub setting, including a new kitchen. 

While North Dorset Beekeepers has been able to get its planned new training and visitor centre off the ground thanks to its grant of £14,118. 

Carole Jones, Trustee of The Vale Family Hub, said: “Thanks to Dorset Council and the funding we received we have been able to complete our dream – an amazing, thriving and busy family hub. 

“If you want to make your dream come true too, I’d highly recommend applying. The process is very easy, and the council supports you all the way.” 

And there’s a real buzz in Shillingstone, as the second phase of the North Dorset Beekeeper Association’s brand-new training and visitor centre building gets underway. 

Robbie Baird, of the North Dorset Beekeepers Association, said: “It was the SPF funding that meant the project became a reality as it funded the groundworks needed before the centre could be built. 

“As there was a deadline when the money had to be spent, it forced us to think about our project in phases and get started on Phase 1. We wouldn’t be where we are now, moving towards completing our new building later this year.” 

The SPF funding is from the government and allocated by Dorset Council. It is a contribution towards small, one-off capital projects that must be completed before the end of February 2026 

Other examples of successful grant awards from last year include Bridport Town Council’s new car park with signage for its ‘Park and Stride’ initiative, Citizens Advice providing health kiosks in more remote settings in Purbeck and East Dorset and Chiswell Community Trust’s new allotments. 

Cllr Ryan Hope, portfolio holder for customer, culture and community engagement at Dorset Council, said: “As the success stories from last year demonstrate, applying for this funding can make a huge difference to local communities. 

“We passionately believe in the power of communities and people working together to improve lives. 

“These grants can help that happen and I hope all those Dorset organisations that have projects ready to go, grasp this amazing opportunity and apply for funding now.” 

Community organisations, including town and parish councils, can apply now by going to Small one - off capital grants fund - Dorset Council 

Or for more information before applying, email communities@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk