Source: Tower Hamlets Council
The council is inviting residents, voluntary and community sector organisations, partners and local groups to help shape the future of the Mayor’s Community Grants Programme.
Background
Since 2023, the Mayor’s Community Grants Programme has provided long-term funding for voluntary and community sector (VCS) groups working to improve the lives of Tower Hamlets residents. As the current funding cycle comes to an end in 2027, we are starting to design what comes next.
Before developing the new programme, we want to hear from you. Your insights, experience and ideas will help ensure future funding reflects community needs, builds on what works well and improves what does not.
How can I take part?
The engagement period will run from mid-July 2026 until 19 September 2026. This will be an opportunity to discuss:
- local priorities
- community needs
- what is working well
- how future funding could support real and lasting change
If you are a local Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) organisation you can get involved by:
- joining workshops to discuss local priorities and funding needs — find more in the Workshop section
- completing the online survey
If you are a local resident, you can get involved by:
- visiting pop-up engagement stalls to share your views in person. Details can be found below
- completing the online survey
Workshops (for VCS organisations only)
Workshops will be held in different locations and at different times to widen participation as much as possible. Further details will be added as new sessions are confirmed.
Confirmed sessions
- Tuesday 18 August 2026, 11am–1pm — Online session — Register
- Wednesday 9 September 2026, 10.30am–12.30pm — Island House Community Centre, Roserton St, London E14 3PG — Register
- Wednesday 16 September 2026, 5.30pm–7.30pm — Bernie Cameron Centre, 32 Merchant Street, Bow, London, E3 4LX — Register
- Saturday 19 September 2026, 10.30am–12.30pm — Brady Arts Centre, 192–196 Hanbury Street, London, E1 5HU — Register
Additional workshops for smaller VCS organisations
By smaller VCS organisations we mean organisations with an income threshold below £150,000.
- Tuesday 15 September 2026, 11am–1pm, online session — Register
Pop-up stalls (for residents)
We are holding pop-up sessions to hear the views of local residents.
- 10.30am–1pm, Thursday 20 August 2026 — Idea Store Whitechapel
Resident Workshop: Have Your Say on Grants and Equality in Tower Hamlets
This workshop seeks the insights and experiences of local people who may experience inequalities because of their backgrounds, identities, or life stories.
Date: 3 September 2026
Time: 10am–12 midday
Location: Tower Hamlets Town Hall Council Chambers, E1 1BJ
Register for the workshop on 3 September
Further information
Please contact the project team at VCS@towerhamlets.gov.uk.
