North Somerset Council Partners on £30k Climate and Nature Funding Opportunity
Community groups and organisations in North Somerset are being encouraged to submit expressions of interest for a new funding opportunity which will see six organisations from the West of England benefit from £30,000 of funding as part of the Community Climate & Nature Action Project’s Capacity Building Programme.
North Somerset Council is partnering with Bristol Climate and Nature Partnership to deliver this programme, which will provide funded groups with a tailored programme of support to co-produce community climate and nature action plans and understand how to turn their planned priorities into action.
The programme offers comprehensive support to help community organisations develop robust climate and nature strategies. Participating groups will work collaboratively with programme facilitators to identify local environmental priorities, assess current community strengths and resources, and create actionable plans that align with regional climate goals. The structured approach ensures that organisations build the necessary skills and knowledge to implement their plans effectively.
With support from the funded programme, groups will also have opportunities to influence policy at a regional level and attract additional funding. This could include presenting findings to local authority climate panels, contributing to regional environmental strategies, and accessing networks of funders interested in community-led climate action. The programme will provide guidance on grant applications, impact measurement, and building partnerships with other organisations working towards similar goals.
Leading the Way on Climate Action
The region is already leading the way on climate and nature, with all four local councils in the West of England having declared climate and nature emergencies and progressing ambitious plans and projects to deliver interventions and actions towards net zero. This collaborative approach across the region demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and provides a supportive framework for community organisations to contribute meaningfully to climate goals.
Local councils have implemented various initiatives, including renewable energy projects, biodiversity enhancement schemes, sustainable transport infrastructure, and community engagement programmes. The West of England has set ambitious targets for carbon reduction and nature recovery, recognising that achieving these goals requires partnership between local government, businesses, and community organisations.
Who Can Apply?
This opportunity is designed to support communities that may not have had the chance, capacity or resources to work on climate, nature and resilience before. The programme particularly welcomes applications from organisations that are deeply embedded in their communities but may lack experience in environmental project development.
Organisations such as sports clubs, women’s institutes, young farmers’ groups, equalities groups, arts and heritage organisations, wellbeing groups, carers’ groups and education institutions are being invited to submit an expression of interest. These diverse groups bring unique perspectives and connections that can help climate and nature action reach wider audiences and create more inclusive environmental initiatives.
Sports clubs, for example, manage significant land areas and facilities that could incorporate nature-based solutions, whilst arts organisations can use creative approaches to engage communities with environmental issues. Equalities groups can ensure that climate action addresses social justice concerns, and educational institutions can embed environmental learning across their activities.
What the Programme Offers
Selected organisations will receive comprehensive support tailored to their specific needs and circumstances. This includes facilitated workshops to explore climate and nature priorities, one-to-one mentoring from environmental experts, access to technical resources and templates, training in project planning and evaluation, and networking opportunities with other participating groups.
The co-production approach means that action plans will be developed collaboratively, ensuring they reflect each organisation’s unique context, values, and community connections. Programme facilitators will work alongside groups to identify practical, achievable actions that can be implemented with available resources, whilst also exploring opportunities for more ambitious longer-term projects.
Groups will learn how to conduct community consultations, assess environmental impact, set measurable targets, and communicate progress effectively. The programme also covers practical aspects such as volunteer coordination, partnership development, and financial planning for environmental projects.
Programme Timeline and Application Process
The programme is set to begin in February 2026 and will complete in March 2028, providing two years of dedicated support for participating organisations. This extended timeframe allows groups to develop their plans thoroughly, pilot initial actions, evaluate outcomes, and refine their approach based on learning and experience.
Expressions of interest to the programme are now open and will close on 8 January 2026. Interested organisations are encouraged to attend an information event to find out more about the programme requirements, application process, and what participation involves.
The information sessions provide an opportunity to hear from programme organisers, ask questions about eligibility and expectations, and learn from examples of successful community climate projects. Attending a session is not mandatory for application, but it can help organisations determine whether the programme is right for them and strengthen their expression of interest.
Making a Difference
Community organisations are uniquely positioned to drive climate and nature action at a local level. They have established trust within their communities, understand local priorities and challenges, and can mobilise volunteers and resources effectively. By supporting these organisations to develop climate and nature plans, the programme aims to create a network of community-led environmental initiatives across the West of England.
Previous community climate projects have demonstrated significant impact, from creating wildlife corridors and community orchards to reducing energy consumption in community buildings and engaging hundreds of local residents in environmental activities. The multiplier effect of community action means that relatively small investments in capacity building can generate substantial environmental and social benefits.
This programme recognises that addressing climate change and nature loss requires action at all levels, and that community organisations have a vital role to play in creating a sustainable, resilient, and nature-rich future for the West of England.
Further Information
For more information about the programme, eligibility criteria, and how to submit an expression of interest, visit the Bristol Climate and Nature Partnership website.
Organisations with questions about the application process or programme requirements are encouraged to contact the Bristol Climate and Nature Partnership team, who can provide guidance and support throughout the application process.
