15th September 2025
A new fund aimed at tackling loneliness and isolation among older people in South Cumbria is open now for applications.
The Age Friendly Activities Fund, managed by Cumbria Community Foundation, is offering grants of up to £5,000 to support new and existing initiatives that help remove barriers to participation and encourage more people aged 50 and over in South Lakeland to get involved in social activities.
The fund is part of Age Friendly South Lakeland, which aims to foster inclusive, age-friendly environments where older people can stay active, engaged, and socially connected.
Katie Gatt, Age Friendly Coordinator for South Lakeland, said: “We know that social isolation is a really significant issue among older people in South Lakeland. This funding will make a huge difference, supporting projects that reduce this isolation, promote physical and mental wellbeing, and help older people feel more connected and valued in their communities.”
The fund supports projects for over-50s within the former South Lakeland district area that reduce loneliness and social isolation, encourage physical activity and healthy ageing, and foster intergenerational inclusion. Promoting digital inclusion and confidence among older people is also a priority.
Priority will be given to:
• small, grassroots and volunteer-led organisations
• community-led initiatives that demonstrate strong local engagement
• projects that reach older people in rural, deprived, or underserved areas
• proposals with potential for lasting impact or sustainability
Find out more at https://www.cumbriafoundation.org/fund/age-friendly-activities-fund/. For further details, email grants@cumbriafoundation.org or call 01900 825760.
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.
Read more about Age Friendly South Lakeland at https://www.cumbriafoundation.org/programmes/age-friendly-south-lakeland/.