The Foundation is a £2 million charitable investment fund that was set up to support people, improve places, and bring our communities together in the areas we serve across Greater Manchester. Every year, we invest the dividends from the fund to support Irwell Valley Homes customers with their personal development and wellbeing, plus community projects and initiatives that enable people to live well in the areas we serve.
Watch our video below to hear from some people and projects who have benefitted from an Irwell Valley Foundation grant.
Help us reach further in our 50th birthday year
As we celebrate our 50th anniversary in 2023, we're keen to hear from as many customers and community groups who might benefit as possible - helping our Foundation to leave a lasting legacy during this milestone year.
We have grants of up to £1,500 for customers which can be spent improving the area or bringing residents together. Perhaps you’d like to organise a community fun day or improve a communal garden in your area?
If you’re a member of a constituted group or charity, we also have grants of up to £5,000 available to support projects in our neighbourhoods. So, if there’s an initiative you need some support to get underway or maintain, please check the criteria and apply here.
Funding from our Foundation helps people to live well by supporting projects which are tackling the challenges of the high cost of living. We are committed to:
- helping people into employment, education and training
- improving neighbourhoods and community facilities
- helping people to improve their personal circumstances
- supporting young people to access opportunities
- reducing poverty
- improving health and wellbeing
- reducing loneliness.
In 2022-23 we awarded grants totalling £86,181 to the community and voluntary sector, making a significant difference to people’s lives.
“Getting on the HITZ programme was a turning point in my life. They believed in me, they showed me there’s something worth working for. “Now I’m working towards an apprenticeship; my mum is proud of me and I want to be a good role model to my younger sisters. It feels good to have a future mapped out.” Jayden gained his first qualifications through the HITZ programme, a youth engagement project supported by the Irwell Valley Foundation.
The Irwell Valley Foundation is overseen by a resident-led panel, which includes customers, colleagues and board members from Irwell Valley Homes.
Members meet every other month to consider funding applications and review the impact of the funding awarded.
The fund is managed by Forever Manchester, the Community Foundation for Greater Manchester, registered charity number 1017504, and dividends are released to Irwell Valley Homes once applications are approved by the panel.