Laura Stewart
The Community Support Scheme continues to champion local initiatives that make a real difference to people’s lives. Each quarter, we proudly support organisations across the region whose dedication to community wellbeing and safety inspires us all. Thank you to everyone who applied and The Equilibrium Foundation.
We are thrilled to announce the winners for Spring 2026.
Cleveleys Avenue Allotments is a community allotment site in Chorlton, Manchester, where residents grow fruit, vegetables, and plants together, fostering outdoor activity and community spirit.
“This support will enable us to reclaim an area of the allotment site that was badly flooded in 2025 and transform it into the new Revival Garden.
“Our volunteers have already worked incredibly hard to clear the site of weeds and debris left by the flooding. Thanks to this funding, we can now move forward with the next exciting stage of the project – creating a pond area and raised beds for planting fruits and vegetables which will make gardening more accessible for people with mobility issues as well as improving the biodiversity of the area. Thank you, Equilibrium Foundation, for helping us turn this vision into reality!” – Elizabeth Hall, Secretary
Connect Talent CIO helps individuals overcome barriers to employment by providing mentoring, IT support, CV assistance, and inclusive community programs.
“Connect Talent CIO is grateful to Equilibrium for supporting our digital inclusion work. Many of the adults we support are beginner computer users, and simple tools such as a wireless mouse can make a significant difference to their confidence and ability to learn. This support will help our learners develop essential digital skills so they can access online services, apply for jobs, and participate more fully in everyday life.”
Hope Central supports people facing hardship through emergency food, affordable pantry access, debt advice, employability services, and life-skills courses. This grant funded Xero accounting software.
“The software is a game changer for me. Monitoring and reporting the finances for the charity is a huge responsibility, and having software to assist in this is such a time saving. As a volunteer I am trying to use my time in the most efficient way possible, and the software allows me to do this. I am aware that all of our charity’s expenses need to be carefully considered and knowing we have a grant from you to cover this cost is wonderful.” – Karen Henshall, Treasurer
Manchester Refugee Support Network is a refugee-led charity in Greater Manchester providing practical advice, advocacy, and support to refugees and asylum seekers, empowering them to rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.
“This grant will enable us to strengthen our outreach through a new online newsletter, helping current and potential clients stay informed about the support, services, and resources available to them. It will also enhance our public visibility, raising awareness of the ongoing refugee crisis and the challenges faced by those we support. At a time of increasing pressure on both our clients and grassroots organisations like MRSN, reliable and accessible communication tools are essential – not only for our clients’ wellbeing but also for sustaining our organisation’s vital work. Thank you to Equilibrium Community Support Scheme!” – Belay Kahsay, CEO
MedEquip4Kids improves the health and wellbeing of babies and children across the UK by providing vital medical equipment and facilities not always available through NHS funding.
“These handheld jaundice meters for community midwives at Liverpool Women’s Hospital will enable safe, rapid assessment of up to 6,000 newborn babies in their own homes each year.” – Christine C, MedEquip4Kids Fundraiser
Veterans into Logistics supports ex-armed forces personnel to overcome poverty and challenges such as poor mental health, addiction, homelessness, unemployment, low income, or involvement with the justice system, by offering funded HGV driver training, welfare, mentoring, and job placement services to help them achieve stability in civilian life.
“This support will enable us to purchase Stripe WisePad devices, strengthening our fundraising campaigns and helping us train and support even more vulnerable veterans into sustainable employment.” – Danielle Sinclair, General Manager
Bendrigg Trust offers inclusive outdoor and residential experiences in Cumbria for disabled and disadvantaged people, fostering inclusion, confidence, and independence through adventure.
“This generous grant will be used to purchase specialist equipment to support disabled children and adults during their adventures at Bendrigg. This equipment is crucial to enable our disabled visitors to safely participate in our activities such as climbing, abseiling, and ziplining, giving them equal opportunities to access the same sports as their peers. Your support ensures that adventure is accessible for all.” – Emily Kinder, Trusts Fundraiser
If you would like to learn more or get involved with any of the winning charities, please visit their website or reach out to them directly.
Operating across the North West, the Equilibrium Community support scheme offers charitable organisations the opportunity to apply for a grant of up to £500.
Applications are reviewed every six months. Click here to find out more on the eligibility criteria and to access the application form.
If you have any queries about our community support scheme, please do not hesitate to get in touch at charity@equilibrium.co.uk and we will be happy to assist.
The next submission deadline is Sunday 1 September 2026.
