Hall & Woodhouse Community Chest

The Community Chest is now in its 24th year of giving a helping hand to local people in supporting and strengthening their community, by encouraging volunteer led charities to apply for a grant to go towards improving their local area. The program believes in working together to improve both the facilities and the lives of residents in communities across the south of England. In 2025, the Community Chest includes an annual pool of funds totalling £60,000 pledged by Hall and Woodhouse. Applications are welcome from any voluntary or community organisation that is based, or works in, the trading area across the south of England, from Devon to Sussex and in the north from Bristol to Twickenham. The program seeks to promote, encourage and support community involvement by offering funds to local voluntary groups with clearly identified needs. Awards will only be considered for organisations with a total income of more than £200,000 in very special circumstances. Grants or fundraising support can range from £300 to £3,000 to help achieve organizational aims. These grants or fundraising commitments can be used towards equipment and furniture, training, transport, professional assistance, specific project resources or operational costs. Supported areas include youth work and activities, sports and social clubs, elderly and people with disabilities, health and social care, local arts and culture, and conservation and the environment. Applications are reviewed by a panel of experienced judges during the autumn, with judges' visits expected in October, and funding issued at an awards evening in January. The Community Chest receives invaluable support, advice and local knowledge from the Dorset & Sussex Community Foundations.