The Community Volunteering Scheme (CVS) is a grant programme funded by the Voluntary and Community Unit (VCU) in the Department for Social Development (DSD). Its objective is to encourage and support volunteering, create and enhance opportunities for volunteers that will encourage learning and good practice, and promote a positive image of volunteering and community participation.

Main Grants Programme (3 year programme)

• £2.2 million over 2006-2009
• 28 successful grant projects (135 applications)
• 6 regional grant projects
• 22 local grant projects

The current grants round has closed.

View the successful Main Grant Projects

Small Grants Programme (annual programme)

• £240k in 2006/2007
• Administered by the Volunteer Centre Network
• Maximum grant £1,000

How to apply for a small CVS Grant

Aims

CVS aims to:

• Promote active citizenship and diversity and make volunteering more inclusive by increasing activity within groups under-represented in the volunteering population. (These include: people unemployed or not in paid work; 16-25 year olds; people over 50; people with disabilities; and members of minority ethnic communities).
• Increase the number of people volunteering, particularly those new to volunteer activity.
• Support the development of good practice and ensure a wide range of volunteering opportunities that enhance learning for volunteers, and other benefits.
• Support projects that benefit individuals and communities experiencing disadvantage, including communities of place and interest, and contribute to New Targeting Social Need.

Grant Team Contact Details