This Fund offers small grants to formally constituted organisations to support watersports and other physical activity connected with the tidal Thames, connected inland waterways, or the Thames Path National Trail in Greater London, Kent and Essex.

It is dedicated to fostering growth in water sports and enhancing the use of the Thames Path National Trail. It is focused on improving access, diversity, and inclusion, while raising awareness of the benefits of physical activity in blue space.

Grants awarded are typically worth around £5,000.

Organisations seeking to apply for amounts higher than £5,000 should be confident in their ability to deliver against multiple objectives, and ideally be able to demonstrate prior success in similar projects.

The grants are for projects which aim to increase participation among under-represented groups, develop the skills and capacity of volunteers or staff, improve health and wellbeing, or strengthen local communities.

Applications should align with at least one of the following objectives:

• Increase diversity in participation, particularly among under-represented groups which includes:
  • Children & Young People
  • Ethnically diverse communities
  • LGBTQ+ communities
  • People with disabilities
  • People with long term health conditions
  • People from lower socio-economic groups

• Workforce Development – enhancing the skills and capabilities of coaches, volunteers, and administrative support teams.

Funding decisions are expected in December, with successful projects ready to begin delivery by spring.

Previous beneficiaries of this funding are welcome to apply again.

Check the full details and apply with the online form at the Active Thames Fund website here.