Deptford Challenge Trust Open Programme

The Deptford Challenge Trust (DCT) is a charitable trust that makes grants to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in a defined area of Lewisham, which covers Deptford and parts of New Cross. DCT started out as part of the national City Challenge regeneration programme in the mid-1990s when part of the funding was invested in student accommodation. Rental income from the student accommodation is still providing income to DCT and is used to provide grants to support voluntary and community organisations for activities within the DCT area. Applications are welcomed for projects which work with residents of any age, gender and ethnic background, under five key themes: Education and skills (helping those who need extra support to either stay in education or return to it later in life); Community cohesion and social inclusion (celebrating diversity and welcoming new arrivals); Health and wellbeing (improving physical and mental health of residents); Strengthening the DCT area (building capacity and connecting local organisations); and Crisis support (providing services to support people in poverty or crisis). Grants of between £1,000 and £30,000 are available towards core costs, capital costs or project costs. The programme uses a two-stage application process where applicants first complete a short online form with basic information about the proposed work. The DCT Board then reviews these proposals and invites those which best fit the fund priorities to submit a full proposal, budget and supporting documents. Proposed activities must benefit residents of the DCT area in Lewisham.