Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a selection of answers to some of the most common questions that we get asked. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information and advice.
Individual Grants
Am I eligible to apply for an individual grant?
You need to be currently living in Chippenham within the Parish boundary and have lived in Chippenham for over 6 months.
Our individual grants are for those on a means tested benefit or on a low income. Low income is defined as:
- a single person household, an income of less than £16,000
- for a couple/family household an income of up to £30,000, with savings of less than £5,000.
How long will it take to process my application?
Please allow up to 28 days for our Grant Managers to assess your application.
Can I apply for funding to help with a course or training?
Yes we can support individuals with course costs but we are unable to support first or master degrees.Do you provide mobility aids for Chippenham Residents?
Yes we do. Please check your eligibility to apply for a grant. During the processing of your application we will ask you to attend an Occupational Therapy assessment at the Independent Living Centre, Semington. They are a charity organisation who offer impartial advice, helping to find practical solutions for easier living. You can visit them and get an assessment from them with or without our involvement.Do you help with carpets and flooring?
No we can’t currently help with funding carpets or new flooring.
Grants for Organisations
Who can apply for a CBLC organisational grant?
Not-for-profit organisations based in, or delivering services within, the Parish of Chippenham. Find out more here.
Does my organisation need to be a registered charity?
No. You don’t have to be a registered charity, but you must be not-for-profit and meet the eligibility criteria for our Grants for Organisations programme.
Can schools or community groups apply?
Yes. Schools, voluntary groups, and community organisations can apply if their project is based in and benefits residents of Chippenham Parish. Find out more here.
Do we need a community bank account?
You should have a bank account in the organisation’s name that requires at least two unrelated signatories. We cannot make grant payments to an individual’s account, even if they are representing an organisation.
Can we apply for core costs (e.g. salaries, rent, utilities)?
Yes, core costs are eligible for funding.
Can we apply for event funding?
Yes. Community events can be funded but they must take place within the Parish of Chippenham, be of community benefit and focus on at least one of our grant outcomes: –
- increased community participation and cohesion
- improved physical and/or mental health with reduced health inequalities
- improved education and secure employment
- more people with safe and suitable homes and a reduction of relative poverty (e.g., food, fuel)
- increased physical activity, participation in sports, arts, culture, and time outdoors in nature.
How much can we apply for?
You can apply for up to £10,000 in total within one financial year.
Can we submit more than one application in a year?
Yes, as long as the total within one year doesn’t exceed £10,000.
What activities or projects are not funded?
- Political activities
- Projects promoting or advancing religion
- Animal welfare projects
- Activities with little community/charitable benefit
- Retrospective projects or activities
- Activities raising funds for other organisations
- Projects that should be funded statutorily
How do we apply for a CBLC grant?
By completing the online application form on the CBLC website. Find out more about our grant application process here.
Is the application form online?
Yes. Applications are submitted online. Applicants need to complete an eligibility form which leads straight onto the full application if eligible.
Can we get help with our application?
Yes. CBLC provides funding advice and support through our community drop-in sessions. Find out more here.
What reporting do we need to provide if we're awarded a grant?
You’ll need to report on details including how funds were spent, the Chippenham residents who have benefitted and whether your planned outcomes were achieved.
What happens if our project changes after recieving the grant?
You must inform CBLC and get approval before making changes.
Land & Property Questions
How can I find out more about booking Pewsham Community Centre?
You can find out more about the centre including viewing the live availability calendar, checking prices, and reading the full PCC FAQ section directly on the booking website:
https://pewshamcommunitycentre.lemonbooking.com.
From there, you can also submit a booking request online.
What facilities are available at Pewsham Community Centre?
The centre includes a main hall, domestic kitchen facilities and accessible toilets.
Are dogs allowed on CBLC's open spaces?
Dogs are welcome but must be kept under control*, and owners must clean up after them.
Can local groups hold events on land belonging to CBLC?
Yes, subject to availability and approval. An events application process ensures activities are suitable and meet health and safety requirements. Contact us via admin@cblc.org.uk to find out more.
I got a parking ticket at The Arc / Westmead Lane Car Park - who do I contact?
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Part of the car park is run by The Climbing Academy (TCA) and uses a pay & display system for Arc visitors.
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The other part is managed by CBLC, with some spaces leased to Chippenham Town Council and others reserved for local charities.
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If you have a CBLC parking permit and there’s an issue, email admin@cblc.org.uk.
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If you do not have a CBLC permit or are using the TCA pay & display system (or have a TCA permit), contact TCA:
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Call: 01249 471182
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