Charles Burnett Memorial Fund - Our Community New Forest & Waterside

This grant programme is funded by the Charles Burnett Memorial Fund and is designated for community organisations based in and supporting people in the New Forest. Charles Burnett was a philanthropist who championed work strengthening local communities, recognizing that being part of a strong, connected community can help people lead happier, healthier lives. The programme 'Our Community – New Forest & Waterside' seeks to use a community-based response to help people be part of and thrive within their local community. The New Forest faces national challenges such as cuts to community services and the rise of division and extremist views, as well as specific local needs such as limited public transport and an ageing population. The fund supports community organisations delivering grassroots activities that effectively reach New Forest residents, helping them build meaningful social links and opportunities within their local community. Examples include projects supporting older people whose lives are impacted by bereavement, clubs for young people to help them reconnect face to face and spend valuable time away from screens, or initiatives that help LGBTQ+ people to be part of a peer network. The programme is administered by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Community Foundation under its impact themes of 'flourishing communities' and 'health and wellbeing'. The fund will be re-opening in 2026.