The Border Fund

The Border Fund provides grants to support disadvantaged individuals and groups in Cumbria, with priority given to rural areas northeast of Carlisle, including north and east of Longtown, and through to Gilsland and Newbiggin, though funding covers the whole of Cumbria. The fund prioritizes projects that increase personal skills and independence, support individuals and communities in rural areas, support groups helping people build long-term skills, support disadvantaged individuals over the age of 25 who wish to change career, and support mental health. Examples of supported projects include groups supporting adults with homelessness, hearing loss, or domestic violence; groups providing training to build skills and confidence to disadvantaged adults over 25; mature students seeking a career change or professional qualification; and hardship costs enabling completion of studies or courses.