Time is ticking away for groups and projects to bid for a funding boost from East Dunbartonshire Council’s Community Grants Scheme.
The latest round is open until 5pm on Friday 9 January 2026 – visit the Community Grants Scheme page to apply and access more information, including guidance and eligibility criteria.
Be like the Befriending Service - apply for a Community Grant
Organisations are being offered inspiration by a local charity that secured support for its ongoing mission to reduce loneliness and social isolation among adults.
East Dunbartonshire Befriending Service recently received two grants – helping to subsidise its monthly newsletter and the salary of a fundraiser.
The non-profit organisation currently helps more than 100 local residents and has nearly 50 volunteer befrienders who provide support on a one-to-one basis, in group settings and via telephone.
It also runs a popular lunch club three times a week within Kirkintilloch, which is delivered by 10 volunteers.
Service Manager Dawn Bunce said,
East Dunbartonshire Befriending Service works locally to improve the quality of life for adults experiencing social isolation and loneliness.
“I was absolutely overjoyed to hear that we'd received funding. One of the grants is helping to subsidise our monthly newsletter which we distribute to nearly 170 people, as well as birthday, Christmas and get-well-soon cards.
“We also secured a grant towards a fundraiser’s salary, which has been instrumental in raising more much-needed support.
“We’re delighted. Every penny helps us to progress the service forward and reach more people across Bearsden and Milngavie, Bishopbriggs and Auchinairn, and Kirkintilloch and surrounding villages.”
Dawn is encouraging other eligible organisations to apply. Visit the Community Grants Scheme page before the latest window closes at 5pm on Friday 9 January 2026.
For more information on East Dunbartonshire Befriending Service, including how you can help to support its work, visit the East Dunbartonshire Befriending website.
The Community Grants Scheme is fully externally financed – with the Council utilising the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund and the Talbot Crosbie Bequest charitable trust.
Organisations can request a grant of up to £5,000 or £10,000. The maximum, over the course of a year, a group can receive is £15,000.
Applications are invited from groups that have a constitution and a bank account, are not for profit, can provide independently-verified accounts and aim to bring benefits to residents of East Dunbartonshire.
Councillor Gordan Low, Leader of East Dunbartonshire Council, said, "If you are involved in an eligible local organisation or project, please don’t delay – time is running out. Grants can be sought for start-up costs, special projects, equipment and salaries.
“I’m pleased the Council has once again been able to use external funding to fully cover the scheme – ensuring we can continue to support great work taking place in our communities.”
If you are unfamiliar with the application process and need assistance, please email communityplanning@eastdunbarton.gov.uk or call 0300 123 4510.
If you want to support the work of East Dunbartonshire Befriending Service or are interested in volunteering, call 0141 345 0432, email info@edbs.org.uk or visit the East Dunbartonshire Befriending website
