Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is celebrating the real difference made by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) Community Grant and announces a new phase of support for local third and voluntary sector organisations.
Since the SPF Community Grant launched in 2022, it has helped local community groups and voluntary organisations deliver projects that have touched people’s lives in all parts of the County Borough. From creating welcoming spaces and improving local facilities, to supporting wellbeing, tackling isolation and opening up volunteering opportunities, the programme has backed local initiatives that help communities feel stronger and more connected.
Over the four years of the programme, £6.58 million was awarded through four rounds of SPF Community Grant funding and two rounds of Micro Grants. In total, 212 organisations received support, helping to deliver 464 individual projects and reach nearly 42,000 residents.
The impact has been particularly important in the communities facing the greatest challenges. Overall, 40% of the total grant funding supported projects that directly benefited residents in 12 areas recognised as least resilient. The programme also supported 105 full-time, part-time and sessional roles, created 267 new volunteering opportunities, improved or created 15 community facilities, and provided funding to install three new Changing Places toilets.
Behind those figures are hundreds of stories from residents and communities who have benefited from the support. People have spoken about making new friendships, feeling less isolated, improving their mental health and wellbeing, and feeling more confident about where to turn for help when they need it. Others highlighted the value of having warm, welcoming and affordable local spaces where they feel safe, included and part of something positive in their neighbourhood.
With the UK Shared Prosperity Fund coming to an end on 31 March 2026, the Council is putting new arrangements in place to continue the support provided to communities. A new Community Partnership Fund will launch in May 2026, with a total value of £600,000 over two years, to support community and voluntary organisations between 2026 and 2028. The fund will focus on local priorities, sustaining important venues and community assets, and supporting work that tackles poverty, strengthens communities and helps residents with the continuing impact of the cost of living.
Councillor Bob Harris, Cabinet Member for Communities, said:
“The success of UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund Community Grant is really a story about local people and local organisations, highlighting the difference they can make when they are given the right support.
“We know how important these groups and organisations are. They are often trusted, familiar and deeply rooted in their communities and that makes them incredibly valuable.
Councillor Andrew Morgan OBE, Leader of the Council, said:
“Over the last four years, we have seen community and voluntary groups deliver projects that have brought people together, improved wellbeing, supported vulnerable residents and strengthened local places right across Rhondda Cynon Taf.
“I am very pleased to be able to announce that we are able to continue to support the fantastic work that is happening across our communities until 2028 through the new Community Partnership Fund. Keep an eye out on the Council website and social media channels for more details.”
This new Community Partnership Fund has received £500,000 from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and an additional £100,000 capital allocation from the UK Government’s Pride in Place Impact Fund for 2026/27. An additional £70,000 is also being allocated to support capital projects developed under the RCT Food Strategy and Partnership.
The new fund has been shaped by the experiences of the people and organisations involved. Feedback from third sector organisations, partners, residents and Council officers has all been considered as part of developing the proposal. Between 2023 and 2025, 774 participants reported an improved experience of community activities delivered through the Shared Prosperity Fund compared with previous provision, while 139 Community Conversations took place during late 2025 and early 2026 to gather residents’ views on the value of local activity in their neighbourhoods.
That feedback has helped paint a clear picture of what matters most to communities. Residents spoke about the importance of social connection, mental wellbeing, better access to support, meaningful activities and welcoming venues that feel inclusive and accessible.
Further details on eligibility and how to apply for the Community Partnership Fund will be released soon.
Posted on 24/03/2026