Redbridge Council has approved a one-year extension to its Corporate Voluntary Sector Grants Programme, pushing its conclusion to 2027. The decision, made by the Cabinet on Thursday, 26 February 2026, aims to ensure the next iteration of the programme is strategically aligned with the Council's forthcoming Corporate Plan and Vision for Redbridge, which is scheduled for publication in mid-2026.
The extension encompasses both the Commissioned via Grant and Community Seed Fund Programmes. This move was agreed as part of the Council's detailed budget proposals for 2026/27, as outlined in the 'Revenue and Capital Budget and Council Tax 2026/27 and MTFS 2026/27 - 2030/31 Report' [https://moderngov.redbridge.gov.uk/documents/s172919/7.%20Revenue%20and%20Capital%20Budget%20and%20Council%20Tax%202026%2027%20and%20MTFS%202026%2027%202030%2031%20-%20Report.pdf].
The key reason presented to the Cabinet for this extension was to allow sufficient time for the meticulous design and launch of the subsequent grants programme. This ensures it will effectively support the Council's new strategic direction, which is expected to be unveiled in mid-2026. The specific criteria for this design and launch process will be developed in line with the new Corporate Plan and Vision.
Both the 'Commissioned via Grant' and 'Community Seed Fund' programmes will be covered by this extension. The Cabinet's decision reflects a commitment to continuity and strategic planning within the voluntary sector funding landscape. Further details on the budget allocated for this extended period up to 2027 were agreed as part of the wider budget proposals.
The minutes of the Cabinet meeting on 26 February 2026 provide further information on these discussions and decisions. Minutes 26th-Feb-2026 19.00 Cabinet.pdf
