Tuesday September 1st 2026
East Lothian Council headquarters
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Marie Sharp
Local community groups, charities and third sector organisations can now apply for this year’s funding awards from East Lothian Council’s One Council Partnership Fund (OCPF).
The application window for grant funding opened today (Tuesday, 1 September) and closes on Wednesday, 30 September 2026. OCPF funding enables the council to support community organisations in their work to help to reduce inequalities and make East Lothian a better place to live.
The focus of the 2027/28 funding awards will be to support initiatives and activities which:
– address inequalities and the impact of poverty, including health inequalities
– reduce social isolation for vulnerable children, young people and adults
– support prevention and early intervention activities across all age groups
– provide more youth work opportunities for our children and young people
– respond to the Climate Emergency
– promote volunteering
The One Council Partnership Fund issued over £1.3 million in grants for 2026/27 to over 30 community-based organisations across East Lothian.
Projects funded last year include vital support around inequalities for children, young people and families through the work of The Pennypit Community Development Trust in the Preston, Seton and Gosford and Fa’side areas, and First Step who work to secure a better future for children and families in the Musselburgh area.
The council is also pleased to be partnering with East Lothian Foodbank, recognising its critical part in supporting those facing the impacts of poverty – both in and out of work – in our communities, and engaging with The Ridge who undertake work to support a range of community needs in the Dunbar area.
Councillor Colin McGinn, the council’s Cabinet Spokesperson for Community Wellbeing, said: “I’m pleased the One Council Partnership Fund will once again be making much-needed funding awards to support the amazing efforts of community-based groups, volunteers and the third sector across the county. Their hard work and dedication play a pivotal role in our communities and are an inspiration to us all.
“This funding will help to address inequalities and tackle poverty, provide opportunities to improve the wellbeing of young people, and respond to the Climate Emergency.
“The council remains committed to supporting these groups who make such an important difference in the lives of those in need.”
Further information on the OCPF is available on the council’s website at: https://www.eastlothian.gov.uk/safety-and-community/your-community/funding-community-organisations/one-council-partnership-fund
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