Last updated:

9th February 2026

Sparks Community Award - Summary

What is Sparks

  • Sparks is a pot of money to help people and small groups in Wokingham Borough with good ideas. 
  • The ideas should help adults who need extra support. 
  • This might be because they have a disability, have a health condition or are a carer. 

Who can apply

  • You live in Wokingham Borough. 
  • You are a small group or an individual with an idea.  
  • You could be a new group, or an existing group with a new idea. 

How much money

  • You can ask for an amount between £100 and £2,000. 
  • We do not give extra money to match other funds. 

What can the money be used for

  • Starting a new group. 
  • Holding events. 
  • Running activities. 
  • Offering a new service. 
  • You can spend money on things like refreshments, venue hire, advertising, or equipment. 
  • Money cannot be spent on staffing costs or refurbishments. 

When to apply

  • Apply from 11 February 2026 to 31 January 2027. 
  • Money is limited. We may close early if funds run out. 
  • Money needs to be spent by 31 March 2027.  

How to apply

  • Tell us about your idea, how it helps people, and what you will spend money on. 

How are applications checked

  • Council staff and Involve will check your application. 
  • They will make sure it follows the rules and fills a gap where something is missing. 
  • If your application passes, a panel of local people will then score it. 
  • You will be asked to talk about your idea in a friendly chat. 

What happens if you get the money

  • You may need a DBS check, insurance, or to become a constituted group.  
  • You will need a separate bank account. 
  • You must spend the money as you said in your application, by 31 March 2027. 
  • Keep receipts and records. 
  • Share your story with the community. 
  • At the end of the year tell us what difference you have made. 

Further help

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