Published on 16th March 2026

Community pride fund awarding

The council’s annual Community Pride fund of £30,000 is awarded to outstanding community groups whose activities positively impact many lives.

This year 22 community-led projects secured funding and are now underway to improve the lives of residents across Cheltenham.

The fund supported a number of events that bring people together including an Eid Reunion, a Chinese celebration by Chinese Culture Connection and the popular Pride in Cheltenham. 

Eight of the projects provide support to children and young people, offering activities and safe spaces across the town. These include the Rock’s Primary Club, a summer holiday activity scheme at Brizen Young People’s Centre, volunteers reading with Cheltenham school children through Read With Me, forest school in the Moors and a play trail at the Cornerstone Centre in Oakley. 

Several projects will improve green spaces and the environment. Highlights include the renovation of the Gottingen Garden in Sandford Park by Friends of Sandford Park to mark the 75th anniversary of the connection, Cheltenham Paint Festival combatting graffiti to transform areas into welcoming spaces and the relandscaping of St Aidan’s Church Community Garden for resident use in Hesters Way to enjoy.

Successful physical and mental wellbeing projects include nature journalling in Pittville Park through Art for All Mental Health, exercise classes for people with disabilities at the Armoury Gym, a gardening for wellbeing project by Springbank Community Group and West Cheltenham Arts Community Choir by KAM Performing Arts Academy. 

Councillor Victoria Atherstone, cabinet member for safety and communities, said: “It was a super tough collective decision this year, again we received so many amazing applications, the fund sadly couldn’t stretch to support them all. We are however delighted the Community Pride fund could stretch to support 22 fabulous, community enriching projects, taking place all over Cheltenham. We have no doubt that they will make a huge positive difference for our residents.”

Councillor Rowena Hay, leader of the council, said: “The annual community pride fund enables Cheltenham’s voluntary and community sector organisations and groups to deliver all of these projects and events throughout the year, making a direct impact in our communities.”

Maria Allebone from KAM Performing Arts Academy, said: “West Cheltenham Arts brings high-quality, inclusive creative opportunities to local communities in familiar spaces so that creativity feels welcoming, local and relevant.

“With support from the Community Pride fund we’re launching a community choir this April at Springbank Community Resource Centre, which is a welcoming free 10-week programme for adults of all backgrounds and abilities. It’s a supportive space, celebrating not just music but community pride and belonging. To register for the choir please email [email protected]."

To read more about Community Pride.

For press enquiries contact: communications, on 01242 264231 or email [email protected].

Notes:

The community pride fund is open every year and provides match funding for projects with grants of up to £2,000. This year, the five themes for the funding were:

  • Connecting people - fostering new relationships and celebrating our culture and diverse communities
  • Enhancing biodiversity - improving green spaces and the natural environment
  • Supporting children and young people - helping them thrive and reach their potential
  • Developing neighbourhood hubs - creating spaces that engage and support young people
  • Promoting wellbeing - encouraging physical and mental well-being across our communities.