Celebrating local impact as £48,946 distributed to 13 Hull community groups
3 March 2025
Community organisations across Hull are continuing to make a difference in the city after the first round of grants has been distributed through the Hull Community Fund. A total of £48,946 has been awarded to 13 grassroots groups, supporting projects that enhance wellbeing, promote education, celebrate culture, and improve local environments.
Since its launch in June 2024, the Hull Community Fund, delivered by Two Ridings Community Foundation, has backed a wide range of initiatives dedicated to health and wellbeing, education and training, culture and heritage, and the environment. The impact of this funding is already being felt across the city.
Among the recipients, City of Hull and District Rugby League is establishing a new youth rugby programme in Bransholme, providing equipment and coach training to support young players with their physical and mental wellbeing. Dance in Company CIC is delivering dance sessions for disabled and older adults, ensuring greater access to the arts and enjoyment for all. Meanwhile, MAMA T’S is using its funding to sustain a youth street dance project, offering creative opportunities to children in Endike Lane, North Bransholme and Ings estate.
City of Hull Sport and Community Group CIC are using their funding for wellbeing activities for children and their families. Bob Beautyman shared how the funding has transformed their work, “The funding has made a massive impact on us. It has allowed us to expand our health and fitness sessions and provide vital support to families facing bereavement, isolation, and mental health challenges. We’ve created a space where people of all ages can connect, try something new, and improve their wellbeing.
“Our future aspirations are to continue to be a hub for the community and be a place where anyone can come and try something new, meet new friends and live a healthier life.”
Holly Gibbs from Dance in Company highlighted the success of their 15 Seated Dance Sessions, which reached 250 older adults in Hull over Christmas, “One participant told us, 'It made us feel as though we are still here!' Many of them would have been alone at Christmas, but these sessions brought joy, laughter, and social connection. The funding has enabled us to forge new partnerships, and we’re committed to bringing dance to every corner of the city in an inclusive way.”
Other initiatives include Hull Afro Caribbean Association’s multicultural school engagement project, which brings local people together through arts, crafts, and food activities. Humber Job Hub CICA is running employability workshops to help Hull residents gain skills and move towards sustainable employment.
Celia McKeon, Two Ridings CEO, shared “I am delighted that we have completed our first round of the Hull Community Fund. It is incredibly moving to see some of the wonderful grassroots organisations in the city making an impact for many people.
“This fantastic work could not happen without the support of local people and organisations who donate directly to the Hull Community Fund. We are very grateful for your support and welcome new donors to join us in making a difference.”
A full list of the organisations awarded funding are:
· City of Hull and District Rugby League – Established a new youth rugby program in Bransholme, investing in equipment and coach training to support young players.
· Dance in Company CIC – Delivered wellbeing dance sessions for disabled and older adults, providing accessible arts opportunities across the city.
· Hull Afro Caribbean Association – Piloted a multicultural school engagement project, using arts, crafts, and food activities to foster community cohesion.
· Humber Job Hub CICA – Provided employability workshops to equip Hull residents with essential skills for securing meaningful employment.
· MAMA T’S – Sustained a youth street dance project, creating safe and creative spaces for children in Endike Lane, North Bransholme, and Ings council estate.
· Pickering Road Community Orchard – Hired a volunteer coordinator to support governance improvements and expand community activities.
· West Hull Community Sports Club – Recruited a Hub Officer to strengthen volunteer coordination and administrative functions.
· Youth Aspire Connect – Employed an administrator to help secure additional funding and enhance operational capacity.
· City of Hull Sport and Community Group CIC – Delivered wellbeing activities for primary-age children and their families, engaging 45 families in multiple sessions.
· Kingswood Knights ARLFC – Upgraded coaching quality by providing Level 1 Rugby League Coaching qualifications for eight volunteer coaches.
· Aidan’s Southcoates PCC – Replaced broken kitchen equipment to enhance their community catering service, supporting volunteers on their journey to recovery or employment.
· The Maximum Life Youth Project – Funded a youth sports worker to lead gymnastics, ice skating, rock climbing, and other active sessions.
· Toranj Tuition – Delivered STEM activities to inspire young people and increase engagement with science and technology subjects.
Looking ahead
This funding has empowered local organisations to strengthen their foundations, expand their outreach, and positively impact their communities.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Hull City Council, HEY Smile Foundation, Hull CVS, and Forum to support these initiatives,” McKeon added. “By working together, we can create more opportunities and ensure long-lasting community impact.”
Applications for the next round of the Hull Community Fund reopen in Summer 2025, offering grants of up to £2,000 for activity projects and up to £10,000 for organisational development. For more information on how to apply, visit tworidingscf.org.uk.
