Each year, we donate over £100,000 to a variety of good causes which include local charities, neighbourhood groups, schools and voluntary organisations. In 2008/9, we provided funding for over 150 community projects with a strong focus on activities that helped those less fortunate, supported education and encouraged community integration.

Projects that we have supported include Eden River Trust’s ‘River Days’ which will receive £14,000 over two years to take approximately 2,000 school children in North and East Cumbria to visit their local river and help develop an interest in looking after the environment. We have provided £5,000 to REACT Foundation for their Science & Engineering Shows which, in conjunction with the Science Museum’s Outreach Team, offered a chance for every Year 6 pupil in West Cumbria to attend an exciting and interactive educational science show.

We have also provided:

• £2,000 to fund four cyclists in their bid to ride from Land’s End to John O’Groats in aid of several of the region’s hospices
• £500 towards the redevelopment of a community playground
• £10,000 to fund a project aimed at educating farmers in sustainable practices
• £300 towards the cost of a crime awareness seminar for the elderly
• £5,200 to fund a reading competition in Cumbrian schools
• £150 towards a school ‘working garden’

Other projects and events that we have supported include a social group for the over 50’s, a ‘friendly bench’ at a village primary school, a community football tournament organised by Cumbria Police, a cub and scout camping trip, a film and media talent festival and a residential training weekend for a youth orchestra. In addition, we have provided a number of raffle prizes or small donations to groups and individuals raising funds in support of local causes such as the Great North Air Ambulance, Eden Valley Hospice and local branches of Age Concern, the Rotary Club and NSPCC.

How to apply

The Cumberland Building Society Community Fund offers donations to non-profit organisations, voluntary groups and schools benefiting communities within the operating area of the Society. We specifically welcome applications for financial assistance from those that support educational projects that will benefit people living within an area served by the Cumberland Building Society.

Donations will usually range from £50 to £1,500; however, funding of up to £10,000 can be awarded to specific educational projects or community events that involve a significant number of people. The amount of the donation will be dependant on the degree to which the project or event is perceived to help the community and/or the number of people involved. Certain exceptions apply and these are available on request.

To apply for a donation, please email your application to communityfund@cumberland.co.uk.

For applications of less than £50, or for raffle prizes for community events, please contact the manager of your local branch.