The Westmorland Community Fund focuses on supporting the communities in which Westmorland Ltd colleagues live. Grants are available for projects that help these communities thrive, create a legacy and deliver long term benefits.
Area of benefit: Appleby-in-Westmorland, Brough, Kirkby Stephen, Penrith, Stainton, Shap, Tebay and Kendal.
Donor
The Dunning Family of Westmorland Ltd set up our Westmorland Community Fund in 2009. Westmorland Ltd was formed in 1972 and includes Tebay Services, Rheged, Westmorland Hotel and J38 Truckstop.
Priority will be given to projects that:
• help named communities to thrive
• support young people to reach their potential
• improve mental health and wellbeing
• have synergies with the Westmorland Family’s business interests around sustainable development and awareness of the value of local produce, farming and craft
• have the potential to grow and have a real legacy
In addition to providing grant funding, Westmorland aims to build lasting, supportive relationships with the groups it supports. The goal is to create a two-way connection to ensure a circular benefit – where funded organisations, local communities, and Westmorland colleagues can share ideas, learn from each other, and grow stronger together over time.
Who can apply?
Community groups that:
• support young people and help them develop their skills
• manage facilities such as community halls and youth clubs
• operate or provide community-based services in the eligible area
We welcome applications from groups that are not only delivering impactful work but are also interested in building a lasting relationship with Westmorland Family colleagues. We are also keen to hear from passionate, energetic group leaders who have great ideas.
Examples of projects supported:
• Skills training programme boosting young people’s confidence, employability and enterprise
• Mental health workshops offering peer support and wellbeing activities
• Community building renovation creating a lasting space for learning, events and connection
• Youth club offering weekly creative, active and skills-based sessions to support confidence, wellbeing and long-term development
• Enterprise project supporting new ideas and creativity through mentoring and training
What the Fund will not support in addition to our normal exclusions:
• individuals
• projects taking place outside the identified geographical areas
• public toilets
• animal charities
• one-off or annual events
• trips
• nature projects
How much can you apply for?
Grants will vary in size from £500 to £10,000.
Multi-year grants will only be considered for projects that show strong potential to grow their impact over time – such as attracting further funding, inspiring new initiatives, or encouraging wider community involvement.
If you would like further information about this fund please contact:
Tracy Cheesbrough, Grants & Programmes Officer, on 01900 512395 or email tracy@cumbriafoundation.org.