26 May 2026

Tel: 01245 355947

Funding Opportunity: The Saffron Community Fund – Opens Again for Applications

26th May 2026

Since its launch, the Saffron Community Fund (SCF) has awarded over £250,000 in grants, enabling grassroots organisations to deliver essential services and projects that strengthen local communities. Established by Saffron Building Society and managed in partnership with Essex Community Foundation, the fund ensures support is distributed fairly and where it can have the greatest impact.

Smaller charities and community groups based near a Saffron Building Society branch across Essex, Hertfordshire and Suffolk now have another opportunity to apply, as the Saffron Community Fund has reopened for applications.

Discover if there is a branch near you – here.

What the Fund Supports

The Saffron Community Fund focuses on projects that support elderly people, children and young people, and environmental or green causes. Applications are open to charities, not-for-profits, and volunteer groups. Each application is assessed individually to ensure funding is allocated fairly.

Why it Matters

Claire Hunnable, Saffron’s Community Business Partner, explains:

“The Saffron Community Fund has become a real source of colleague and member pride – in 2022 we invested the largest sum to date. Working in partnership with the Essex Community Foundation (who administer Saffron’s fund), we granted £19,327 to applicants including Bishop’s Stortford Mencap, Thaxted Centre for the Disabled, Enterprise East, and CARA (Centre for Action & Rape Abuse). Our support is critical for these smaller charities and we welcome applications for funding from an amazing diversity of groups who do great work at a grassroots level.”

Since then, the fund has gone on to support many more organisations, from community allotment projects and youth initiatives to services for older people and vulnerable groups. Each year, the range of applications grows, reflecting the creativity and resilience of local charities working hard to make a difference.

Examples of Projects Supported by the Fund in 2025

Among some of the latest recipients from the last funding round are are:

  • Uttlesford District Stroke Support – A community based organisation supporting local stroke survivors and their carers through regular social meetings, lunches, and outings. They were awarded £1,500 towards their weekly social lunches, outings and informal support for elderly stroke survivors and carers in Saffron Walden.
  • Children’s Hospital Pyjamas – a UK-based charity, which collects brand new pyjamas to then donate to hospitals, hospices, and women’s refuges across the UK. They were awarded £1,000 towards the costs of providing pyjamas for poorly and vulnerable children across Essex-based hospitals.
  • Bury St Edmunds Child Contact Centre – a registered charity offering supported contact to families where there is no significant risk to the child or those around the child. They were awarded £2,000 to support their core costs.

Deadline

Applications close Monday 22nd of June 2026 

How To Apply

Could your charity or group be next?

If you would like to apply, please fill out the application form by  Clicking here.

We always recommend getting in touch first to ensure you have the right guidance before submitting your application, to do so please give our Grants Team a call on 01245 355947 for more information.

Get In Touch