Applications Open For The LNER Customer And Community Investment Fund

LNER is looking for applications from small to medium-sized organisations based within 15 miles of its route, that meet LNER's aims of being Better for Planet, Better for People and Better for Places. Charities can apply for awards of up to £10,000. Projects which champion diversity and inclusivity, promote mental health, boost skills and bring communities together are being encouraged to apply, as well as initiatives promoting sustainability. The application window is open until Monday 2 September 2024. 

In the past year funding has been awarded to 23 diverse projects, making a difference to more than 16,000 people living along LNER’s route which stretches between London King’s Cross and the Scottish Highlands.  Initiatives ranging from providing bespoke workshops for young adults with learning difficulties, to saving delicate ecosystems, and boosting salmon stocks in Scottish rivers are among those to have received funding.  

A recent recipient of CCIF funding is Scottish charity LifeCare Edinburgh who provide support services to older people, allowing them to be active at home and in the community.

Speaking about the funding Sarah van Putten, CEO for LifeCare Edinburgh, said; “The funding we’ve received from LNER’s Customer and Community Investment Fund will allow us to offer regular outings and activities within our day services, and deliver dedicated support activities for unpaid carers in the evenings and at weekends. These activities will deliver a multitude of positive physical and mental wellbeing impacts for both the older people we support and their carers.”

Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre based in North Yorkshire was able to build a dedicated multi-sensory room with the funding received from CCIF. 

Lisa Hart, Head of Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre, said: “The sensory room has been an incredible addition to our centre Without the funding, we wouldn’t have been able to give 170 art makers, aged from 18 to 80, the opportunity to explore their senses and better express themselves creatively. We are very thankful to LNER for their support and would encourage other charities to submit a bid for funding.”  

Details about how to apply can be found on the LNER website.

LNER’s Community Investment Manager,Rachael Wilson, said; “Our customers and the communities we serve are really important to us. We are proud to have been able to support more than 130 charities, providing funding for great projects which have had an amazing impact on the lives of the people and places around them and continue to do so. We’re looking forward to receiving applications and supporting more projects in 2025.”