Grants available to projects supporting Wiltshire's elderly
Wiltshire's over 65 population has grown by 30% in the last decade
Grants of over £1,000 are being offered to organisations in Wiltshire and Swindon helping older people.
They're part of Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation's (WSCF) grant scheme as they aim to support groups keeping the elderly stay independent, healthy, and socially connected.
Wiltshire has an ageing population, with 1 in 5 people living here now aged 65 or over, meaning the need for local, community-led support is as great as it's ever been.
Since launching in 2023, the programme has helped 34 projects and awarded more than £150,000 in grants. Projects that could receive funding include befriending schemes to reduce loneliness, IT skills training to help older people stay connected, support for those facing challenges such as illness, injury, disability, or bereavement, and opportunities to stay active through sports, arts, recreation, social clubs, and volunteering.
Applications for funding are open until 25th September, with grants of between £1,000 and £5,000 per year for one or two years, and eligibility criteria can be found here.
Fiona Oliver, Joint Chief Executive of Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation, said: “The Older People’s Programme provides vital support to local organisations running projects that improve the health, wellbeing, and social connection of older people across the county. These projects make a real difference, helping to reduce loneliness, improve access to services, and ensure older residents can remain active and engaged in their communities.”