Loneliness and isolation continue to affect so many older people across the UK — challenges that are often made even harder by financial struggles. These grants will help local organisations offer friendship, connection, and a sense of belonging through befriending schemes, community transport, social activities, and other initiatives that bring people over 65 together.

We were inundated with applications for this round of funding — a powerful reminder of just how great the need is.

These 23 community-led groups know their neighbours, understand the challenges people face, and are already making a real difference. With our support, they’ll be able to go even further — improving lives and helping people feel part of something again.

One of the charities receiving funding is The Hackney Lighthouse CIO. Their grant will help keep Barney’s Café in Homerton open — a welcoming weekly space in one of the most deprived parts of London. Here, local residents can enjoy a warm drink and a slice of cake, connect with others, and access the Food Bank services they provide. This core cost grant will help cover the essential expenses that keep the doors open and the kettle on.

We’re delighted to stand behind these groups and the extraordinary work they do in their communities. Together, we’re helping to create a world where no one has to face later life alone.

Images: Green Creations CIC, The Hackney Lighthouse CIO, The Wellbeing Hub Mount Hawke.

Full list of groups we’ve funded:

Northern England

• St Gabriel’s Community Group
• The Neighbourhood Project CIC
• Friends of Burnage Library
• Green Creations CIC
• Cyril Flint Volunteer Charity
• The Music Box Yorkshire CIC

Midlands

• Tumeric and Glow CIC
• Communities Food and Wellbeing Hub
• Birmingham United Foundation CIO
• Deep Roots Tall Trees

South of England

• Just Friends
• MHA Communities Southampton
• The Wellbeing Hub Mount Hawke
• Sterts Theatre CIC

London and South East England

• The Welbeloved Club
• The Cornerstone Church Group
• Havens Happy Clubs
• The Lighthouse Project
• Quest Soul Theatre CIC

Scotland

• Portobello Older People’s Project SCIO (POPP)
• Inspiring Communities

Wales

• Hay & District Dial-a-Ride
• Cynefin Pamoja