£50,000 available to support projects that enable Newham communities to thrive

Tate & Lyle Sugars has launched the 2026 Lyle’s Local Fund, offering grants of up to £5,000 for projects that support safe, prosperous and healthy communities across Newham.

Since 2017, the Fund has awarded more than £300,000 to 117 projects run by local charities, schools, social enterprises, community groups and not-for-profit organisations, helping to create opportunities and improve wellbeing across the borough.

Applications open on 22nd September 2026 and close at 11pm on 25th October 2026. Organisations wishing to apply can find further information on the Newham Council website: Lyle’s Local Fund 2026/27 – Funding for community projects.

The Fund was officially launched at a breakfast event at Thames Refinery, where recipients of last year’s grants came together to celebrate their projects and share the difference they have made in local communities. Councillor Lakmini Shah, Cabinet Member for Education, Children and Communities, and Councillor Imam Haque, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Deputy Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Communities, joined the celebration.

Councillor Lakmini Shah said: “The Lyle’s Local Fund is the perfect example of local businesses working collaboratively with the Council and Local Community- and is the kind of partnership this administration is developing across the borough.

“It continues to provide valuable support to the organisations and volunteers working at the heart of our communities. Together with Tate & Lyle Sugars, we are enabling local groups to access funding for projects that make a real difference to residents across the borough. I encourage local groups and organisations to apply and look forward to seeing the positive impact this year’s funding will have across Newham.”

Councillor Lakmini Shah, Cabinet member for Education, Children, and Communities

Guests heard from several 2025 grantees about the impact of their funded projects. Bonny Downs Community Association shared how its Sing and Stretch Choir supports older people, people living with dementia and their carers through music, movement and social connection. The Newham African Caribbean Heritage Reference Group (NACHRG) spoke about its intergenerational community history and arts project, while NEWway Project highlighted the success of its women’s day shelter.

Together, these projects showcase the dedication of local organisations working to strengthen communities, improve wellbeing and create opportunities for residents across Newham.

Chris Abell said, “We’re proud to continue investing in the communities we’ve been part of for more than 145 years through the Lyle’s Local Fund. Every year, we see first-hand how local organisations turn ideas into projects that support residents and strengthen communities.

“We look forward to supporting more great initiatives in 2026 that make Newham a safer, healthier and more prosperous borough and encourage local organisations of all sizes to apply.”

Chris Abell, Director of Property, Community & Stakeholder Relations