For the first time, Southeastern is inviting applications for grants to help support projects that make a positive difference to communities across southeast London, Kent and East Sussex.
The Customer and Community Improvement Fund supports projects that help with local rail improvement, deliver social value within communities, help reduce economic and social inequality, and support social mobility.
Successful bids should clearly demonstrate how the project will achieve one or more of the following goals:
- Promote local skills and employment
- Build healthier, safer and more resilient local communities
- Ensure a sustainable railway
- Promote inclusion and diversity
- Support Railway 200
Charities, stakeholders, organisations and community groups are encouraged to apply for a grant of between £1,000 and £50,000. All projects must be completed by 31 March 2025.
Southeastern is also inviting bids for proposed projects to be considered for funding in 2025/26, but these must be completed by 31 March 2026.
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said: “This is a brilliant example of how our railways offer so much more than simply getting people from A to B – they boost opportunities and transform lives.
“It’s been almost 200 years since the world’s first passenger journey set off in the UK, and communities, then and now, are at the heart of the network. I look forward to seeing the positive impact these grants will have on both Southeastern’s customers, and the people in the areas they serve.”
Kevin Warn, responsible for Southeastern’s stations in Kent, said: “Southeastern plays a huge role in supporting the local economy by connecting people to friends, family, education, employment and healthcare, and this is a wonderful opportunity for us to do even more and give something back to the communities we’re proud to serve.
“Earlier this year, we were the first train operator to publish a Social Mobility Action Plan and this funding will unlock new opportunities for local organisations, charities and community groups to do even more.”
The deadline for applications is 23:59 on Saturday 31 August 2024.
For more information and to submit your application, visit the Southeastern website.
Find out more about Southeastern’s work in the community here.
