Funding is available to protect, promote and plant trees in local communities in the UK.
The UK Community Tree Planting Programme supports projects run by community groups and voluntary organisations that engage communities in planting and caring for native species of trees.
The Programme supports community projects that will:
- Conserve, restore and protect indigenous trees and woodlands, forests, habitats and associated biodiversity.
- Support community engagement in tree planting to promote reforestation and to increase awareness of the importance of trees and forests to environmental and human well-being.
- Encourage social cohesion and inclusion.
There are two streams of funding available:
- Grants for community woodlands/hedging projects that range from 100 – 25,000 trees planted per year, with a maximum price equivalent to £1.95 per tree (inclusive of tree protection and mulch). In addition, these projects also receive two maintenance grants equivalent to £0.10 per tree, disbursed in the first and second summers after planting.Grants for community orchard projects of up to 30 trees planted per year.
Community-based organisations, such as a school, community group, social enterprise, non-governmental organisation, or praish council, can apply.
To be eligible, applicants must have:
- Signed permission from the owner or manager of the land indicating that their project meets legal requirements.
- A bank account in the organisation’s name.
There is a two-stage application process:
- Groups must first submit an online Expression of Interest form which will be assessed within one month of the date of submission.
- Successful applicants will then be short-listed to complete a full application.
The deadline for applications is 13 December 2024 (noon).
Guidance notes are available from the International Tree Foundation’s website.
