Empowering lives on the edge of the Forest
In Totton, on the edge of the New Forest, many local people face daily challenges that go unnoticed: poverty, long-term illness, poor mental health, and social isolation. Youth and Families Matter (YFM), a grassroots charity based in the town, has worked for over 30 years to meet these challenges head-on.
Raising sails and aspirations: how a HIWCF grant is helping young people build brighter futures
In 2024, Ocean Youth Trust South (OYT South) received a transformative three-year grant of £25,000 from the Charles Burnett Memorial Fund, administered by HIWCF. The funding is part of HIWCF’s commitment to supporting projects across the region that build employability and skills – offering young people not just hope, but the tools and confidence to shape their future.
Basingstoke NeighbourCare: bringing community together through community cafés and social groups
Thanks to a £10,000 grant from HIWCF’s Including Communities Fund, Basingstoke NeighbourCare has been able to continue running its much-loved Community Cafés and social groups – offering vital connection and support to older residents across the Basingstoke area.
Isle of Wight Community Fund: benefiting Island causes
The Isle of Wight Community Fund supports local organisations working to reduce poverty and improve health and wellbeing. Grants of between £1,000 – £5,000 were awarded in 2024 to grassroots groups based on the Island.
Growing wellbeing in Basingstoke with Inspero
In 2024, Basingstoke based charity Inspero was awarded a £10,000 grant from the HIWCF Including Communities Fund to support its innovative community wellbeing programme, WellnessN’Wellies. The initiative uses nature, sustainable horticulture and therapeutic gardening to promote better mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing for local people aged 13 to 93.
Aurora New Dawn: empowering survivors
Aurora New Dawn, based in Hampshire, is a specialist charity offering life-saving support to survivors of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and stalking. There is a deep, collective understanding from staff and volunteers, often shaped by lived experience, that influences every service Aurora provides, creating an environment where survivors are truly heard, respected, and empowered.
A place to belong: how a new community hub Is connecting refugees in Hampshire
Refugees often face social isolation, which can severely affect their mental and physical wellbeing. Without connections or support, many experience loneliness and a sense of abandonment.
Helping a young entrepreneur expand their independent publishing business
With a grant of £500 from SWEF, Artemis can now invest in producing additional zines, allowing Delos Publishing to expand its product range. This growth will open up new opportunities, such as attending industry events and securing trade deals.
Helping a young entrepreneur expand her mobile coffee business
Hannah, a 26-year-old entrepreneur from Hythe, New Forest, has turned her passion for coffee into a thriving mobile business.
Confidence in the community with Ability Dog, Jack
Jasper is the proud recipient of Ability Dog, Jack, who provides every day support both in his home and out in the community. 19 year old Jasper feels confident when he travels to university with Jack by his side. Without him, Jasper says he wouldn’t have felt able to make the commute for his studies.
