Charities, community groups and not-for-profit organisations can apply for grants of up to £5,000 to strengthen mental health and wellbeing across Edinburgh
A new round of the Edinburgh Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund opens on Friday 18 September 2026, offering grants of up to £5,000 for community-led projects supporting adults’ mental health and wellbeing across the city.
The Fund is distributed by Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations’ Council (EVOC) on behalf of the Scottish Government. Applications will remain open until Wednesday 18 November 2026. After an assessment process, successful organisations will have one year in which to spend their award after payment in March 2027.
The Fund is designed to tackle mental health inequalities, reduce social isolation and loneliness, support suicide prevention, and respond to poverty and inequality. It has a strong focus on prevention, early intervention and community connection, particularly for people who face socio-economic disadvantage or are at greater risk of poor mental health.
The round is open to charitable and not-for-profit organisations, constituted and unconstituted community groups, and other eligible organisations providing services in Edinburgh with an annual turnover of £2 million or less.
Funding can support practical costs including equipment and materials, one-off events, hall and room hire, participation costs, staffing, training, transport, utilities, volunteer expenses and safety equipment. Capital costs of up to £5,000 may also be considered.
Previous grant holders have shown how small, locally rooted projects can create meaningful change. Across Edinburgh, funded activity has helped people move from isolation into friendship and community participation, supported parents and carers to recognise that their own mental health matters, and created accessible opportunities through art, physical activity, peer support and volunteering.
Bruce Crawford, EVOC’s CEO said: “Community organisations understand their neighbourhoods and the people they support. This Fund helps turn that knowledge into practical activity that can reduce isolation, build confidence and create stronger connections. Previous grant holders have shown that even a relatively small award can unlock lasting change.
“We want to hear from grassroots groups with a clear idea, strong local relationships and an understanding of how their work will contribute to the Fund’s aims. We particularly welcome applications that clearly describe the difference the project will make and how local people have helped shape it.”
EVOC will host an online information and question-and-answer webinar for prospective applicants. The session will explain the Fund, eligibility, priorities, and application process, with time for questions.
Organisations considering an application can book the webinar through Eventbrite.
Full guidance and the application form are available here. Applications open on Friday 18 September 2026 and close on Wednesday 18 November 2026.
