Local schools, clubs, and community groups are being urged to apply for Tendring District Council’s (TDC) sports grants before the deadline on Sunday, 27 July.

The grants, part of this year’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) programme, are designed to help more people across Tendring get active, get involved, and feel part of their community through sport and physical activity.

Whether it’s boosting after-school activities, bringing the coastline to life with beach sports, or helping young people access clubs regardless of financial barriers, these grants are designed to make a real difference.

And while this year’s funding is still up for grabs, last year’s recipients are already showing what’s possible.

Frinton and Walton Youth Football Club (FWYFC) received £1,000 under the 2024/25 scheme to help launch two new youth teams – the Under-7s and Under-8 Reds – giving nearly 20 young players their first taste of competitive football.

“We currently have ten players registered in the U7s and nine in the U8 Reds,” said Andy Hockey, Chairman of FWYFC.

“As well as twice-weekly training sessions, both teams have entered tournaments, played friendlies, and competed in the Colchester and District Youth Football League

“The grant helped cover kit, coaching qualifications, safeguarding checks, and equipment – making it possible to give these young players a fantastic start.”

This year’s funding offers similar opportunities through three grant streams:

• School and Club Activity Grants – Up to £500 (or £1,000 for exceptional proposals) to support extra-curricular sport and activity programmes.

• Coastal Sports Events Grants – Up to £500 to help deliver beach-based sports events that celebrate Tendring’s coastline.

• Inclusive Access Grants – Up to £300 to help young people join local clubs, with funding paid directly to the club to remove financial barriers.

Councillor Mick Barry, TDC Cabinet Member for Leisure and Public Realm, said: “These grants are about opening doors – whether it’s a child joining their first team, a school launching a new club, or a beach buzzing with activity.

“We want to see more stories like FWYFC’s, and we encourage anyone with a great idea to apply before the deadline.”

Applications for the schools and inclusive access grants close on Sunday, 27 July 2025, while the sports events grants will continue until the funding has been exhausted. All funded projects must be completed by 31 March 2026.

Full details and application forms are available at www.tendringdc.gov.uk/content/ukspf.

For updates on UKSPF and other funding opportunities, including the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF), sign up to the Tendring4Growth E-bulletin or visit www.tendring4growth.com.

Image shows Frinton and Walton Youth Football Club (FWYFC) Under-7s.