Transformation Grants

The transformation grants have been developed following a key recommendation in an independent review of our grants programmes. The report recommended that the Trust continue with its various small grants programmes, while investing more significant funds to address longer-term, systemic and structural issues in our communities.

The transformation grants are a new programme. They are designed to complement, not replace, our current smaller grants programmes for grassroots organisations.

Westway Trust intends to take a back seat in the delivery of these transformational programmes, as it is felt that the organisations with the expertise, knowledge and track record are best placed to affect systemic change. For this reason, it’s important that the host organisation has the necessary financial, governance and staffing structures in place, as well as a track record of delivering programmes of this scale. We will be looking to fund organisations who have successfully delivered programmes of this scale and can demonstrate the impact they have made in their communities. They will have already conducted the necessary research and can demonstrate need and impact on the themes they intend to address in our communities.

Another requirement for successful applicants will be the ability to demonstrate a robust impact reporting framework.

The transformation grants could also be used to leverage other funding from different sectors locally – private, public, NHS etc. So larger originations with existing funding relationships will be best placed to maximise these leverage opportunities. We realise that this particular criterion will exclude a number of small community organisations in applying for this grants programme. We also recognise that smaller organisations with ambitions to deliver programmes of this scale would benefit from an opportunity like this. That’s why we are committed to working with successful applicants to ensure they work with smaller grassroots organisations to deliver their programmes on the ground.

We will be encouraging successful applicants to provide shadowing/mentorship opportunities for the leaders of smaller organisations to play a key part in the strategic planning and impact reporting for the funded programmes.

The Transformation Grants will seek to support projects that will focus on addressing themes of social injustice in North Kensington and implementing systemic change. We encourage projects that demonstrate sustainability, and potential for positive impact in North Kensington.

Westway Trust has identified six priority areas for investment activity within the community, based on our experience, consultation with local people and groups, and research we commissioned in 2018/9. The six priority areas are:

1. Isolation
2. Spaces for young people
3. Recreation and exercise
4. Economic participation
5. Arts and culture
6. The environment

As a result of the research, all of our current funding programmes reflect a commitment to improving opportunities for local people in these priority areas.

• Individuals
• Sole Traders
• Organisations based outside of the UK
• Organisations that look to make profits and share these profits out privately – including shareholders.
• Organisations applying to more than one of our funds for the same project.

The grant can cover a wide range of expenses associated with the project’s delivery, including core costs.

To apply for the grant, interested applicants will need to complete an EOI Form on the Westway Trust website. Upon selection, applicants will be encouraged to complete a Grant Application which will be available on the website during the application period (4 weeks).

Yes, as part of our monitoring process, grant recipients are required to submit quarterly progress reports detailing the project’s KPI achievements, challenges faced, and financial expenditures. Additionally, a final report on the project’s outcomes achieved, impact, and financial reconciliation is required upon completion of the project.

Yes, you may apply for multiple Westway Trust grants if you have project ideas that align with the specific grant programmes’ objectives. Please see our Community Investments & Grants page for more information.

Grant applications are assessed based on the quality and project criterion set by Westway Trust. Please refer to the transformation grant programme criteria for more information. Applications are reviewed by a panel comprising of staff, trustees and community members.

Due to the high volume of interest expected, we will be unable to provide individual feedback on unsuccessful applications. We will, however, provide general feedback on why applications may have been unsuccessful. Please refer to this page for further information.

Yes, with a prime focus in North Kensington.

Whilst the project needs to focus on North Kensington, we understand that you may have beneficiaries from various boroughs/areas, but we can only award grants for services that will have a primary focus in North Kensington.

The Transformation Grant will be contracted for one year; however, you will be asked to provide an exit strategy and/or plans for future funding if appropriate.