For the first time, Southeastern is inviting applications for grants to help support projects that make a positive difference to communities across south-east London, Kent and East Sussex.
As well as carrying up to half a million customers every day and linking people with loved ones, employment, training and healthcare, Southeastern is working towards being a purpose-driven, public sector organisation.
Having launched the first Social Mobility Action Plan for a UK train operator working to break down barriers and improve mental health in communities, Southeastern is now offering funding opportunities for local groups.
The Customer and Community Improvement Fund supports projects that help with local rail improvement, deliver social value within communities, help reduce economic and social inequality, and support social mobility.
Charities, stakeholders, organisations, and community groups are encouraged to apply for a grant of between £1,000 and £50,000.
Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy said:
“This is a brilliant example of how our railways offer so much more than simply getting people from A to B - they boost opportunities and transform lives.
“It’s been almost 200 years since the world’s first passenger journey set off in the UK, and communities, then and now, are at the heart of the network. I look forward to seeing the positive impact these grants will have on both Southeastern’s customers, and the people in the areas they serve.”
Kevin Warn, responsible for Southeastern's stations in Kent, said:
"Southeastern plays a huge role in supporting the local economy by connecting people to friends, family, education, employment and healthcare and this is a wonderful opportunity for us to do even more and give something back to the communities we're proud to serve.
"Earlier this year we were the first train operator to publish a Social Mobility Action Plan and this funding will unlock new opportunities for local organisations, charities and community groups to do even more. The funding could help to provide local training and employment, build healthier and safer communities, become more sustainable and promote inclusion and diversity."
A successful bid should clearly demonstrate how the project will achieve one or more of the following goals:
- Promote local skills and employment
- Build healthier, safer, and more resilient local communities
- Ensure a sustainable railway
- Promote inclusion and diversity
- Support Railway 200 – a yearlong programme of events celebrating 200 years of railway history throughout 2025
For more information and details on how to apply, visit the Southeastern website.
