Last updated:
9th February 2026
Sparks - Frequently Asked Questions
We will update this information page as more questions are received.
1. Who is providing the funding
Wokingham Borough Council.
The Sparks Community Award is brought to you by Wokingham Social Care Future group, which is supported by Wokingham Borough Council.
2. Who can apply
Anyone living, working or volunteering in Wokingham Borough. This includes individuals, small groups, community organisations, faith groups, social enterprises, community interest companies, small businesses, or even a group of friends.
If you are not an established constituted group, we don’t want this to be a barrier to you applying and can support you to become one.
3. What is a constituted group
A constitution is basically a written agreement of what a group is going to do and how they will do it. Constitutions are important because they can help people to understand exactly why they are working together and can help them to plan how best to get things done.
Involve Community Services has some useful information on their website and can also talk with you to help you get set up - email reception@involve.community.
4. What sorts of projects can be funded
Projects that support adults who may need extra help due to disability, mental or physical health conditions or caring responsibilities.
Projects that benefit local Wokingham Borough adults.
Projects that support people who may need extra help due to disability, mental or physical health conditions or caring responsibilities. The Sparks fund supports projects that:
- Help people feel part of their community
- Support people to live and stay in a place they call home, and
- Help people to do more of the things they love
This could include:
- Starting a new group or activity
- Running events
- Offering new services
- Covering things like venue hire, refreshments, advertising, or equipment costs
This cannot be used as match funding, or to fund salaries or refurbishments.
Projects must be not for profit.
We share some examples here to give you ideas.
If you are not sure whether your idea would be successful, please get in touch to talk to us about it.
5. How much can I apply for
You can apply for £100 to £2,000.
6. How many times can I apply
We have limited funding and we want it to be shared as widely as possible across the communities in Wokingham Borough, so it is unlikely that anyone would receive more than one lot of funding.
7. When can I apply
Applications are open from 11 February 2026 to 31 January 2027. The fund may close early if all funding is used.
8. When must I spend the money
Funds must be spent by 31 March 2027.
9. How do I apply
Fill in the online application form. Tell us about your idea, how it helps local people, and how you will spend the money.
10. I can't fill in the online form – what shall I do
Please get in touch so we can talk about other ways to apply – GetInvolved@Wokingham.gov.uk
11. Can I get help with my application
Involve Community Services can give advice on what makes a good application, especially for new groups or people who need help setting up. reception@involve.community.
12. How are applications assessed and who is doing this
Stage 1: We check that your project meets all the rules, supports community aims, is clear about spending, and benefits local people who need extra support. Staff from Wokingham Borough Council Adult Social Care Team and Involve Community Services will screen applications.
We will also talk to other teams in Wokingham Borough Council to understand if a project is receiving other funding from the council.
Stage 2: If you pass stage 1, you will be invited to a friendly chat with our panel of local residents. They will talk with you about your idea, how it meets local needs, whether the budget is good value, and how your project could continue.
13. If my application is successful, what happens next
You may need things like DBS checks or insurance and we will let you know.
We will keep in touch regularly, and you will be asked to share updates about what your project achieves and how the money is used.
14. How do I know whether I need DBS checks or insurance
This will depend on your project. Involve Community Services can give you advice – email reception@involve.community.
15. Where does the money get paid
You will need a separate bank account as money cannot be paid into your usual personal bank account.
16. Will my project be promoted
Yes. We will share stories about successful projects through council newsletters and social media to inspire others.
17. Can I apply next year
No, funding is only available for one year.
