We’re excited to announce a brand-new partnership between Neighbourly and The Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU), who have launched the TRU Community Fund to support projects making a positive difference along the route of this transformative rail programme.
The TRU Community Fund is designed to enhance local places and spaces, giving back to the towns, cities and villages connected by the upgrade. By partnering with Neighbourly, TRU will ensure funding reaches trusted local charities, community groups and good causes that are at the heart of the places they serve.
The TRU programme is one of the most significant rail infrastructure projects in the North of England that will better connect passengers between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York. Alongside improvements to journeys and connectivity, TRU is committed to delivering social value - leaving a positive legacy that extends beyond the railway.
The TRU Community Fund will provide £250,000 in grant funding for projects that create or improve indoor or outdoor community-focused facilities. It will be open to initiatives that align with TRU’s Sustainable Development Strategy which includes, but is not limited to:
Neighbourly’s platform will connect the TRU Community Fund directly with grassroots organisations that understand the needs of their communities best. This approach ensures that the funding goes where it can make the most difference.
Speaking about the launch, Alex Peters, Interim Head of Sustainability and Social Value for TRU, said "We're delighted to launch the second round of our Community Fund, which represents our ongoing commitment to supporting the communities we work alongside. This funding provides a fantastic opportunity for local organisations to make a lasting impact on the people they serve."
Example’s from TRU’s Community Fund 2024 included the refurbishment of community facilities, the restoration of outdoor spaces such as woodlands and wildlife ponds and the creation of community allotments.
For Neighbourly, this new partnership represents another step in helping businesses and infrastructure programmes invest in the communities they touch. With TRU’s commitment to building stronger, greener and more connected places, the TRU Community Fund will provide practical support to hundreds of local initiatives.
You can read more about TRU, and apply for the TRU Community Fund when applications open in October on the link below.