The National Lottery provide the Foundation's Largest Ever Grant

AFC Fylde Community Foundation is delighted to announce that, thanks to players of The National Lottery, it has received a significant investment of £256,975 from The National Lottery's Reaching Communities Fund over the next three years. This funding will help the Foundation continue delivering vital programmes and support across the local community.

This funding will not only secure the future of our Loneliness Prevention Project across Fylde but will also enable us to expand our reach, particularly within rural communities where loneliness, isolation, and barriers to accessing support can be more acute. In addition, it will allow us to widen the age range of participants we engage with, creating a more inclusive and preventative approach to reducing loneliness and fostering stronger, more resilient communities.

Our Loneliness Prevention Project is designed to reduce isolation, strengthen social connections, and improve the wellbeing of older adults and those experiencing disadvantage. Through a combination of one-to-one befriending, peer support groups, community activities, wellbeing initiatives, and social events, the project will provide opportunities for older adults to build meaningful relationships, increase confidence, and become more connected to their local communities.

The project will also support volunteers through dedicated training and development opportunities, equipping them with the skills and confidence to make a meaningful difference within their communities. Older adults will remain at the heart of the programme through ongoing involvement in shaping, informing, and guiding activities, ensuring that provision reflects their experiences and priorities. The Foundation is currently recruiting individuals from across the borough to join its Older Adults Advisory Board, helping to ensure the project continues to be developed and delivered in line with the needs of local people. Together, these elements will create a supportive and inclusive network that empowers people to stay active, engaged, and connected to their communities.

This award represents the largest grant ever secured by AFC Fylde Community Foundation and is a landmark moment in the charity’s journey. It reflects both the impact of our loneliness prevention work and the trust placed in us to continue making a positive difference across Fylde. With this investment, we will be able to strengthen and expand our support, helping more people build connections, improve wellbeing, and feel part of their local community.

The investment comes at a time when many residents continue to experience loneliness and social isolation, particularly within rural communities where transport challenges, limited local services, and fewer opportunities for social interaction can make it more difficult to access support. Over the next three years, the project will support hundreds of residents across Fylde through befriending services, peer support groups, community activities, health and wellbeing initiatives, and volunteer-led support.

Working closely with voluntary, community, health, and statutory sector partners, AFC Fylde Community Foundation will continue to strengthen pathways into support and ensure residents can access the services, opportunities, and connections they need to improve their wellbeing. This collaborative, multi-agency approach will help create stronger, more connected communities while ensuring support is tailored to local needs.

The impact of the Foundation’s work can already be seen through the experiences of those who access its services. One participant from the Kirkham Companions group said: “I first came to Kirkham Companions looking for friendship. Initially, I brought my wife along, who was living with dementia, and she really enjoyed being part of the group too. Sadly, she has since passed away, but I continue to attend because of the companionship and support I receive. We all have a lot in common and understand each other's circumstances. Most importantly, we have a good laugh together.”

Our Chief Executive Officer, Chris Brannigan, had this to say about the award,

“We are incredibly grateful to The National Lottery and, most importantly, to the millions of players whose support has made this investment possible. To receive the largest grant in the Foundation’s history is a tremendous honour and reflects the trust and confidence placed in our organisation and the impact of our work to date. This funding will enable us to expand our loneliness prevention work across the borough, reaching more people and strengthening our partnerships with local organisations to deliver the best possible outcomes for our communities. We are excited to build on our existing success and look forward to making an even greater difference to the lives of those who need our support.”

Dave Edmundson, Chair of the Board of Trustees, added, "To receive a £256,975 award from National Lottery is an exceptional achievement and a testament to the Foundation's reputation, impact and ambition. The investment demonstrates the confidence and respect the Foundation has earned, placing it among the most highly regarded football charities  operating alongside those associated with EFL and Premier League clubs".

As the largest grant ever secured by AFC Fylde Community Foundation, this investment marks an exciting new chapter in the charity’s journey to reduce loneliness, strengthen communities, and improve wellbeing across Fylde.