£1.2m Tata transition fund opens for Neath Port Talbot community projects

Community groups in Neath Port Talbot can apply for a share of a new £1.2m fund to support people, families and neighbourhoods affected by the Tata Steel transition. Expressions of interest open on 30 September, with applications considered on a rolling basis.

What the money can pay for

The TSUK Mental Health & Well-being Community Fund offers grants of up to £10,000 and a second stream from £10,001 to £50,000. It can cover up to 100% of eligible project costs, including running costs and capital work.

Projects must address at least one of four priorities: social connections and peer support, community resilience, mental health and wellbeing, or health-harming behaviours. The council lists community gardens, repair cafés, friendship groups, volunteer training and improvements to community spaces among possible uses.

Who can apply

Eligible applicants include constituted community groups, charities, social enterprises, co-operatives and other qualifying organisations based in Neath Port Talbot. The funded activity must take place in the county borough. Town and community councils can apply for work beyond their statutory responsibilities.

This is project funding for organisations, rather than a direct payment to individual workers. The scheme excludes political lobbying, gifts, recoverable VAT and statutory duties already funded elsewhere. Ongoing costs must be sustainable beyond the grant period.

How to start

Organisations should discuss their proposal with the fund officer at tatacommunityfund@npt.gov.uk before submitting an expression of interest. Eligible applicants will be invited to make a full application, which a funding panel will assess.

Funding must be committed by 31 May 2027 and projects completed by 30 September 2027. Applicants should wait until all approvals are in place before starting their funded project. The council’s scheme page provides the guidance.