Brent Giving: Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to Brent Giving! We are a new initiative empowering local people to shape their communities. Find answers to common questions below.
What is Brent Giving?
Brent Giving is a resident-led, place-based giving scheme. It empowers local people to decide how money is spent to help local communities. Our aim is to build a stronger Brent by addressing issues such as isolation, poverty and mental health struggles.
What is Participatory Grantmaking (PGM)?
Brent Giving is part of a growing international movement called Participatory Grantmaking. It shifts decision-making power over grants from traditional funding organisations to the communities and individuals who will benefit. This approach builds trust, harnesses local knowledge and helps funding reach the groups that truly need it.
How does Brent Giving relate to the wider London Giving Movement?
Brent Giving is a proud member of the wider London Giving Movement. We align with the shared vision of networks like London Funders to foster effective, joined-up and informed place-based giving initiatives across the capital, empowering local communities to take collective action.
How does Brent Giving differ from traditional funding models?
Unlike traditional models where decisions are made solely by funders, Brent Giving involves local people with lived experience in deciding where funding goes. This ensures money directly supports the real issues facing residents in Brent.
Who can be a Community Panel Member?
We are seeking enthusiastic and dedicated community members from South Kilburn, Harlesden and Stonebridge & St Raphael’s. You should be passionate about making a tangible difference in your local area.
What is the role of a Community Panel Member?
Panel members are at the heart of Brent Giving. You will play a crucial role in reviewing grant applications and deciding which local projects receive vital funding, directly influencing positive change in your neighbourhood.
What is the time commitment for Panel Members?
We ask for a commitment of approximately 2 hours per week. This includes 4 training sessions to equip you with necessary skills and 4 – 6 panel review sessions of 2/3 hours where you will assess and discuss grant applications.
Is the Community Panel Member role paid?
Yes, panel members are paid the London Minimum Wage – £13.85/hours for their invaluable time and expertise.
How do I apply to become a Community Panel Member?
You can apply to be a Panel member here: https://brentgiving.org/panel-apply/
If we are not recruiting please subscribe to the Brent Giving Newsletter for updates and when we will be opening applications again.
What kind of grants does Brent Giving offer?
Brent Giving offers small grants ranging from £500 to £5000. These are designed to support vital grassroots initiatives and innovative solutions to mitigate poverty.
What are the eligibility criteria for organisations applying for grants?
Grants will be awarded to individuals, charities and community groups working directly to reduce poverty within the Brent community. Please note that grants will not be given to organisations with an annual turnover of more than £250,000. Projects should be deeply embedded in local communities and demonstrate a direct positive impact.
What types of projects are Brent Giving keen to fund?
We are particularly keen to fund projects focused on reducing poverty and addressing specific challenges faced by residents experiencing hardship in Brent.
How do I apply for a grant?
Further details on the application process for these small grants will be announced shortly.
Please subscribe to the Brent Giving Newsletter to stay informed.
How are grant decisions made?
Funding decisions are made by our Brent Giving Panel Members, who are local residents. This ensures a resident-led approach where those with lived experience directly influence which projects receive funding.