In 2024 we launched the Kerslake Awards to support community projects and activities, in memory of our late Chair, Lord Bob Kerslake.
Lord Kerslake worked as a senior civil servant in central and local government. He was President of the Local Government Association and Chair to health, education and social housing organisations. Lord Kerslake worked tirelessly to improve people's lives. The fund will help honour his passion to help people in our communities realise their potential.
Funding guidance
Here’s all you need to know about the Kerslake Awards and the eligibility criteria.
How much funding is available?
Each year, £40,000 is available to fund local projects.
You can apply for up to £2,000, which means we’ll support at least 20 projects every year.
Who is the fund open to?
The fund is open to local people, charities and community organisations.
We'd love to hear about ideas that help our residents become happier, healthier or wealthier.
What can the fund support?
Grants can support regular activities, clubs, or one-off events.
They might bring the community together, reduce loneliness, get people active or even support people from becoming homeless.
When can I apply?
The next round of funding runs from Monday 27 October to Friday 5 December 2025.
Applications open twice a year in spring and autumn, with £20,000 available for each round.
Getting ready to apply:
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Before you start, get together the documents you’ll need.
Applying for funding:
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Need help with your application?
We’re holding online sessions to help you with your application:
- Thursday 6 November, 2pm to 3pm — register on Zoom
- Tuesday 18 November, 6pm to 7pm — register on Zoom
Together, we can support local projects that help people live healthier, wealthier and happier lives.
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Our Kerslake Award funds community garden makeover in Cambridge
A resident of Cockcroft Place in Cambridge has used a new grant from Peabody to transform a nearby community garden for local people to enjoy.
Contact us
If you’d like to discuss your project or ask a question about the fund, please get in touch.
Applications for individuals
✅ Proof of address, i.e. a copy of a utility bill with applicant’s name and address on it
✅ Photo ID, i.e. a copy of applicant’s driving licence or passport
✅ A copy of a bank statement with applicant’s account details of where to pay funds, if your application is successful
✅ If you’re awarded funding, you’ll need to complete a risk assessment for your activity. Our funding guidance includes a simple template to help you get started.
Applications for organisations
✅ A copy of your governing document, e.g. constitution, memorandum and articles or set of rules
✅ A list of the names and addresses of your management committee
✅ A copy of your most recent annual accounts, record of income and expenditure, or a spending plan and recent bank statement if you're a new group. All organisations should have a bank account in the name of the group, with at least two unrelated signatories
✅ A copy of your safeguarding policies if you'll be working with children or vulnerable adults. (Please contact us in advance of making your application if you need help to develop one)
✅ A copy of your public liability insurance and your employers liability insurance (where relevant). If you don't have this insurance and your application is successful, you will need to have it in place before your project can start