March 21st, 2023.



A multi-million-pound partnership project, Changing Chalk, which connects nature, people and heritage has launched a new community grants scheme in eastern Sussex today. The Changing Chalk Community Grants scheme will deliver funding to groups who can make a difference in the local area and support Changing Chalk’s overall vision of creating a sustainable future for the eastern South Downs.

The scheme, in partnership with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, will award small grants between £250 and £5,000. Applications up to £10,000 will also be considered for habitat projects focussing on priority chalk grassland. In total, the scheme aims to award £150,000 during the lifetime of the Changing Chalk Project. The scheme will run for three years with two funding rounds per year and the final funding round in Summer 2025. The deadline for Round 1 applications is 30th April 2023.

Projects funded under the new grants scheme will deliver activities within the Changing Chalk project area and support delivery of the partnership’s objectives under the three themes - Restoring Chalkland Diversity, Connecting Downs and Towns, and Hearts and Histories of the Downs. Examples of what could be funded under the scheme include: outdoor and wellbeing activities to engage local groups in the natural or cultural heritage of the Downs, tools or equipment for volunteer groups to help manage chalk grassland habitats, community research or arts projects which explore people’s cultural connection with the Downs.

Applications are encouraged from local community and voluntary organisations and charities. Schools and parish or town councils will be eligible to apply if their project demonstrates wider community involvement and benefit. For more information about the Changing Chalk Community Grants Scheme, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, visit: Community Grant Scheme | Sussex | National Trust

Changing Chalk is a partnership of organisations led by the National Trust. It aims to restore and protect the internationally rare chalk grassland on the eastern South Downs, bring histories to life, and provide new experiences in the outdoors to those who need it most. The 4-year Changing Chalk delivery phase commenced in April 2022 and is supported by a £2.23m Heritage Fund grant, support from players of the People's Postcode Lottery and The Linbury Trust.

For more information about the Changing Chalk Partnership, including how to get involved, visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/projects/the-changing-chalk-partnership.

National Trust Regional Director, Richard Henderson, commented: “The National Trust is excited to be launching the community grants scheme as part of Changing Chalk. We’re eager to open the funding doors to local communities and invite them to join us on our journey and help us achieve the important vision of Changing Chalk.

“We encourage applications for projects that will help local communities access, enjoy and learn about the nature and cultural heritage of the eastern South Downs, and protect the rare chalk grassland habitat and wildlife that depends on it. Take a look at the guidance on our website to find out more about how to apply.”

Stuart McLeod, Director England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We’re excited to support the Changing Chalk Partnership thanks to money raised by National Lottery players. These community grants which will enable grassroots projects to take part in the scheme and make a difference to the natural heritage of this part of Sussex. At the Heritage Fund, we’re incredibly proud to fund projects that give people the chance to connect with the nature and wildlife that is on their doorsteps and this project is a great example of this.”