National Grid offers £500,000 in winter community grants

National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) has announced £500,000 in funding through its Community Matters Fund to assist community organisations during the winter months. The grants are aimed at supporting warm hubs, village halls, and other groups helping households manage energy affordability and fuel poverty.

Registered charities and non-profit organisations are eligible for grants of up to £5,000, while constituted charitable groups without a charity number can apply for up to £2,000. The funds can be used for various initiatives, including maintaining warm spaces, improving the energy efficiency of community buildings, and distributing items such as blankets, insulated curtains, and draught excluders.

Additionally, the funding supports outreach efforts like visiting isolated households, providing energy-saving advice, and offering guidance on tariff switching or winter fuel support. Applications are open until 5:00 PM on Friday, October 16. Successful applicants will be notified by mid-November, with funds distributed before December for projects to be completed by March 31, 2027.