Lots of people have good ideas to improve their neighbourhoods but need a little help to nurture their plans and let them take root. From just roping off a play area to making a community garden, many plans need a helping hand.

'Living Spaces' is an organisation that will provide that help with a grant towards the project. But they realise that money isn’t everything. A network of trained ‘Living Spaces enablers’ will be on hand across the country to assess your application and help turn your ideas into reality.

Think about the place where you live:

• Does it lift your spirits or make your heart sink?
• Is your environment scruffy, neglected, overgrown, dirty, dangerous or just plain boring?
• Do you have an idea that will help improve your surroundings?
• Do you need some help to make things happen?

‘Living Spaces’ provides grants to help people improve open spaces in their neighbourhood and create valuable places for the whole community to enjoy. It can help you create and improve a huge range of spaces.

Typical projects:

• Play areas.
• Community gardens.
• Local parks.
• Village greens.
• Nature areas.
• Kick-about areas.
• Ponds.
• Courts and squares.
• City farms.

How much money can I apply for?

Living Spaces want to support projects of all shapes and sizes, from small to large-scale improvements. You can apply for any amount between £1,000 and £100,000.

Who can apply for grants?

Grants are available to any existing neighbourhood group anywhere in England. You don’t have to be a registered charity.

What kind of spaces can I get help to improve?

Any kind of outdoor space can be considered for a grant as long as it is: open to the public most of the time within two miles of a residential area and not a formal sports pitch

What other help will I get?

If your project is eligible for a grant you will be allocated a local Living Spaces Enabler. This is a person who has been trained to help you think through your project and provide expert advice on how best to carry it out. Your Living Spaces Enabler will also put you in touch with local organisations who can help ensure your project is a success.

To receive an application pack email info@living-spaces.org.uk or call 0845 600 3190 (local rate) or write to:

Living Spaces
PO Box 2014
Reading
RG4 7XU