Ashington Town Council Awards Small Grants to Three Local Community Groups
Ashington Town Council is delighted to announce that three deserving local groups have been awarded grants through its Small Grant Fund, which opened for applications on Wednesday 4th February 2026. Awards of up to £500 were available to support voluntary groups and organisations across Ashington and the surrounding area.
The Small Grant Fund received a number of strong applications, and the Council is proud to support these initiatives that contribute to the health, wellbeing and community spirit of Ashington.
Junior Parkrun – £500 awarded
Ashington Junior Parkrun has been awarded £500 towards the set-up costs of launching a Junior Parkrun in the town. The initiative aims to raise approximately £4,800 in total, covering insurance, technology, event support and the purchase of a defibrillator.
The adult Ashington parkrun, established in 2023, has gone from strength to strength, welcoming an average of 60–80 runners every Saturday at Ashington Community Woodland. A junior parkrun would build on this success, offering children from Ashington and the surrounding area a wonderful opportunity to engage in regular physical activity.
The benefits are well evidenced — the junior parkrun Health and Wellbeing Survey 2024 found that 75% of children feel happier after taking part in an event. Beyond physical health, participation also supports mental wellbeing, self-esteem, confidence and social skills, as well as providing volunteering opportunities for young people.
The group is currently at an early stage of fundraising and has reached out to the local MP, Northumberland Councillors and the Rotary Club to support the wider campaign.
1st Hirst Scout Group – £500 awarded
1st Hirst Scout Group, which has served the community for over 100 years, has received £500 to fund a group event day for its Beavers, Cubs and Scouts. The day will include a trip to the cinema, a visit to the swimming baths and refreshments, and will be offered entirely free of charge to all members.
With more than 50 members aged between 6 and 14 across the three groups, the funding will ensure that no young person is excluded from taking part due to financial barriers — a commitment that sits at the heart of the group's ethos.
5th Ashington Brownies – £500 awarded
5th Ashington Brownies has been awarded £500 to help cover the cost of transport for a two-night residential pack holiday at Seahouses Hostel, as well as providing a special experience for the group's young volunteers. This will be the group's second visit to Seahouses, having enjoyed a successful holiday there in 2024.
The residential will give young Brownies the chance to build confidence, develop teamwork, strengthen friendships, explore their creativity and learn new skills — all in a safe and supportive environment. The Council's grant will help keep the cost to families as low as possible, ensuring the experience is accessible to all members.
"Ashington Town Council is committed to supporting the voluntary and community sector that makes such a vital difference to the lives of local people. These three groups represent the very best of Ashington — dedicated volunteers giving their time to improve the wellbeing and life chances of children and young people across our town. We are proud to support them". Business Chair Cllr Mark Purvis
More information about our Small Grants is available in the link below, as well as the email and telephone contact to find out more.
Contact Sharon by telephone on 01670 624520
