Details

Network Rail has outlined three main themes to ensure the Community Rail Fund generates sustainable and transformational change.

Projects must align with at least one of the following themes (the examples under each theme are not an exhaustive list and are for general guidance):

Economic Prosperity - Helping people and communities grow financially and succeed.

Initiatives that support or enhance the economic prosperity of a community, for example: • Community-led training programmes that develop local skills or support employability • Projects that create volunteering or work placement opportunities in the local area • Initiatives that support tourism linked to local heritage, such as train-based or walking tours • Schemes that help people access digital tools and financial advice • Community enterprises that reinvest income into local services or improvements

Equal Opportunities - Making sure everyone has fair access to opportunities and services, regardless of their background or needs.

Initiatives that improve equal opportunities through improving accessibility, diversity, and/or equality, for example: • Local, accessible, transport initiatives to help people access healthcare, shops, and social activities. • Advice sessions offering housing, benefits, and health advice in multiple languages. • Basic IT workshops and access to computers to those facing digital poverty/exclusion. • A local support group providing mentorship, mental health resources, and inclusive social events for marginalised groups. • Initiatives to support women returning to the workforce.

Wellbeing - Improving people's quality of life, including health, safety, and the environment.

Initiatives that enhance community wellbeing through environmental improvements, support for mental/physical health, creating safer communities, and positive local activity which brings people and communities together, for example:

• Community gardening or environmental improvement projects that enhance shared spaces • Local support groups tackling issues such as loneliness and isolation • Programmes that encourage physical activity, such as walking groups or accessible sport • Creative or cultural activities that bring people together and strengthen community connections • Initiatives promoting healthy eating, cooking skills, or food access through community kitchens or hubs

Premium information is available exclusively to SCVO members and supporters

Geographical areas funded: Scotland

Fund type

Type of funding:

Grant

Type of cost:

Revenue

Fund award sizes

Minimum:

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Maximum:

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Annually awarded:

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Notes on award amounts:

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Who can apply

While applications will be considered from organisations across Scotland, the fund has advised that priority may be given to projects with a clear connection to the rail network or railway stations. This is not a mandatory requirement, but could be used to support final decision-making if the fund is oversubscribed.

Maximum annual income:

£250,000

When to apply

Now open. The deadline for applications is the 1st of September 2025 for decision in early November.

Next deadline: 1 Sep 2025

How to apply

Complete the online application form via the website.

Contact information

Exclusions

Premium information

Activites funded: Advice and information Arts and culture Citizenship and community involvement Community development and regeneration Transport Education and training Employability services Environment Financial advice and support General charitable activities Heritage and building preservation Mental health care Recreation and social activities Science and technology Climate action

Beneficiaries funded: Local communities

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Last reviewed 2 days ago