Community Counts – news and resources to help local people
Welcome to the Community Counts column on Hello Lincoln – a round-up of the news from the groups, schemes and organisations that may just be able to provide the support or help you or your family need.
In this edition you can find help about a new fund for the Ermine estate; who was the Imps’ community champion and how youngsters with special needs will be trying out different job activities.
Much of the information in these columns has been supplied by CVS Lincolnshire (see story below) but increasingly groups working in the wider community are getting in touch with their news – all are welcome.
We’ll also be running special focus features highlighting the work of organisations helping others in their communities so please tell us about those running in your area too.
Email
And don’t forget you can find out what lots of organisations are up to through the pages of our What’s On guide – just click on the blue button link on this page.
Ermine Community Fund open for applications
A £15,000 fund has been set up to help projects that will make a positive difference to people living on Lincoln’s Ermine estate.
Whether you’re planning a community event, creating opportunities for young people or improving local green spaces, City of Lincoln Council wants to hear your ideas.
“We know there are brilliant ideas and passionate people across Ermine who want to make a difference locally. This fund is about helping turn those ideas into action — whether that’s bringing communities together, creating opportunities for children and families, or improving our shared spaces. We’d encourage anyone with an idea to get in touch and explore how this funding could help bring it to life.”
– Rachel, Community Connector
Supported projects will include
- Community Events and Activities
- Children, Young People and Families
- Improving green spaces and the environment
Funding available:
- Up to £2,500 per project
- Total fund available £15,000
- Projects must demonstrate how they meet at least one community priority
Match funding requirement
- Successful projects will be expected to provide a 50% match funding towards the total project costs.
- Match funding does not need to be cash only and can include:
- In-kind contributions
- Volunteer time
- Donated materials or services
How to apply
Application form and frequently asked questions (FAQ) document are available to download.
Application deadline
Wednesday June 17, 2026
If you have an idea that could make a difference in the Ermine, we encourage you to apply.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your project before submitting, please contact
Tendayi is Community Player of the Year
Tendayi Darikwa (pictured above left) ) has been named Lincoln City’s Community Player of the Season in recognition of his work with the club’s Foundation and his commitment to making a difference away from the pitch.
City's captain received the honour after playing a leading role in the development of a player-led programme designed to support children in care, helping to create meaningful opportunities and experiences for young people across the local community.
His passion for giving back and using his platform to help others has made a significant impact, with the award recognising both his dedication and the positive difference he continues to make beyond matchdays.
Foundation chief executive Martin Hickerton (right) praised Darikwa’s contribution and the genuine care he has shown throughout the programme.
He said: “Tendayi has been incredible in the way he has embraced this project from the very beginning. He has shown a real passion for supporting care-experienced young people and has helped create something that will have a lasting impact on young lives.
"He fully understands the power football has to inspire and connect people, and this award is thoroughly deserved.”
Have A Go Day – Lincoln Saints Federation
Lincoln Saints Federation will be hosting a ‘Have a Go Day’ in the city on Thursday, June 25 when students will be able to try their hand at a wide range of activities.
The federation represents the St Francis and St Christopher’s schools in Lincoln, which cater for pupils between the ages of 2 to 19, who have a wide range of special educational needs.
It is inviting local organisations to attend and support this year’s event and allow students to Have a Go at a range of activities linked to their trade. This will help to give students an insight into the world of work, whilst also help to develop their skills through engaging with local organisations.
If this sounds like something your organisation might be interested in supporting, or if you have any queries, please email
What is CVS Lincolnshire?
Two bodies dealing with the third sector across the county - Lincolnshire Community and Voluntary Service (LCVS) and Voluntary Centre Services (VCS) - have joined to form CVS Lincolnshire.
The new CVS (Community and Voluntary Services) will have a stronger infrastructure body to improve services, reduce duplication, and deliver greater value for local communities, partners and funders.
The two bodies had previously worked in close co-operation as the Lincolnshire Community and Voluntary Partnership (LCVP) but formally joined on April 1.
CVS in Lincoln is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm at City Hall on Beaumont Fee – call 01522 551683.