Third Sector Community Support Fund

The focus of the Third Sector Community Support Fund is to support projects and services that address one or more of West Lothian Council's five priorities below:

1. The Raising educational attainment
2. Strengthening care and support for children, adults and older people
3. Investing in skills and jobs
4. Helping to create strong and sustainable communities
5. Tackling homelessness, poverty and inequality

West Lothian's full corporate plan can be viewed at https://www.westlothian.gov.uk/article/33026/Corporate-Plan

Applications that directly focus on employment support, which are likely to mainly be under investing in skills and jobs, but could link to other areas should be able to show that the applicant has the support of the LEP (Local Employability Partnership). (opens new window)

Areas of Multiple Deprivation

The focus of the fund continues to emphasise supporting our most vulnerable communities, those in the bottom 20%, Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) data zones. See the Scottish Government's interactive map (opens new window) of the areas for more details. Most of these areas are covered by the six Community Planning Partnership Locality Plans and applications should support the delivery of these plans.  The areas are:

1. Armadale;
2. Boghall/Bathgate;
3. Bridgend;
4. Fauldhouse and The Breich Valley (Addiewell, Fauldhouse, Polbeth and Stoneyburn);
5. Livingston (Deans, Carmondean, Knightsridge, Dedridge, Ladywell and Craigshill); and
6. Whitburn and Blackburn.

Projects that support communities through the cost of living crisis will be a key consideration in any award.

Applicants are able to apply for new projects or services that delivered over the 12 month period between 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027.

Applications should not exceed £50,000 per organisation, although consortium bids may apply for more funding, they will be considered on the merits of both the additional value for money and the benefits of the consortium bid. Applicants are encouraged to show how this funding will support the delivery of a service or projects that utilises other funding brought in by the applicant. Therefore showing how the contribution of the funding provides additionality and support the delivery of a larger service or project. There is no specific percentage require for match funding but match funding will be part of the decision making process.

Should you wish for support and advice on how to complete the application form or further information on the funding, this is available through the Community Wealth Building Team. Please email regenerationteam@westlothian.gov.uk (opens new window) to arrange to talk to an officer from the Service.

How to Apply

The funding guidance (Word doc, 72 KB)(opens new window) and application form (Word doc, 78 KB)(opens new window) provide further detail. Any application should be completed in full and returned with the requested additional paperwork by the stated deadline of Sunday 22 February 2026. Applications received late will not be considered.

Any question regarding the funding please contact:RegenerationTeam@westlothian.gov.uk (opens new window)

Privacy Notice: Third Sector Community Support Fund Privacy Notice (PDF, 82 KB)(opens new window)