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Welcome to the latest edition of
Doncaster's Voluntary Action Newsletter
Find the latest updates around community funding opportunities, courses, training and information below...
 Alternative New Year resolutions
As we head into the new year, many of us feel pressured to set big goals or resolutions. But reality is, most of these are given up within the first two weeks of the year as they are unrealistic and are carried with a lot of pressure.
Here’s a reminder that you don’t have to set resolutions. But, if you do why not try choosing goals that prioritise enjoyment, connection and a little more kindness in your everyday life.
We want to share with you our alternative resolutions resources to share with members of your groups and communities, to help create easy, enjoyable goals for the benefit of their health and wellbeing.
Funding opportunities
Apply for microgrant funding to hold activities and evets for 'Age Without Limits Day' 10 June
This is available to community groups and voluntary sector organisations to hold activities and events on the day. Groups and organisations can apply for up to £500, with an additional £150 to cover anything needed to make the activity more accessible.
Groups can choose to mark the day as they would like. There has been a breadth of different events hosted in previous years, including fashion shows, podcast launches, circus performances, volunteer awards and much more. You can read about all the creative events previously held for Age Without Limits Days in the 2024 and 2025 round up blogs.
It is encouraged that everyone interested in making an application join an online information session. Age Without Limits will be hosting two identical information sessions on Thursday 8th January at 2pm and Tuesday 13th January at 10am.
The deadline for applications is Sunday 1st February at 5pm and all of the information and application form can be found over on our website..
Apply for up to £1000 to help bring your new idea to life!
The Common Ground Award is here to support those small, grassroots groups working hard to make life better in their local area. Whether it’s a new project to bring neighbours together, improve a shared space, or tackle something that matters to your community — this grant is designed to help you make it happen.
The deadline for applications is Thursday 15 February 2026.
Winter Warmth grant
The Winter Warmth grants are still available for community groups to support families and individuals with winter essentials, helping residents of Doncaster to stay warm over the colder months.
Applications of up to £500 can be submitted until 28 February 2026. Please note that these grants are limited and will close earlier if all funds are allocated.
Need Funding or advice on How to Apply for Funding?
Book your free 45-minute appointment at this FREE Funding Advice session.
South Yorkshire Funding Advice Bureau are running a FREE funding advice surgery for voluntary and community groups and CICs in Doncaster to get help and advice with your project, event, activity or group.
Rob Billson, a experienced SYFAB funding adviser will be on hand to advise you about sources of grants and funding and other support you can access.
The sessions will take place
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Friday 6 March 2026, Askern Town Council Rooms Alexander House, High St, Askern, Doncaster DN6 0AB - Book on our webiste.
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Friday 24 April 2026, Oxford Pl, Doncaster DN1 3RH - Book on our webiste.
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Friday 22 May 2026, Armthorpe Community Centre Welfare Park, Church St, Armthorpe, Doncaster DN3 3AG - Book on our webiste.
To book your place, you need to register with SYFAB. Visit syfab.org.uk and click on ‘Get Started’, then follow the simple steps to registering the group or organisation. Once registered, for each surgery you will see the booking form to book an appointment.
After your appointment, you will be offered up to 2 hours of 'follow-up' advice and support following this surgery.
(Once you have booked on a session, you will be contacted to arrange your preferred appointment time on the the surgery date)
FREE Online Training for VCFS Groups
Boost your skills with fully funded sessions from Make Your Mark Training, led by experienced bid writer Mark Smith. No question is too small — all experience levels welcome!
To book your spot and grow your impact, simply email the team on: community.wealthbuilder@doncaster.gov.uk. Make sure to include the Name of the Course in the Subject Line, then simply wait for a response.
Help Shape Breast Screening Services in South Yorkshire
NHS England have partnered up with Caja Group, to gather feedback from women aged 47–53 in South Yorkshire to improve breast screening services on their behalf. Insight will be collated through short surveys and informal sessions to understand what helps or hinders attendance.
If you work with women in this age group or can share this opportunity with local VCSE or community groups, please contact harry.jerman@cajagroup.com or juliet.quinn@cajagroup.com
Change a life in 2026: Foster for Doncaster
Could your everyday skills help a local child build a brighter future?
Right now, we are looking for people in Doncaster to provide a stable home for local children. By fostering, you help a child to stay in living near the people and places they know.
You don’t need to be an expert to make a difference. Your everyday skills could be the key to unlocking a child’s potential this year.
If you live in the Doncaster area, have a spare bedroom and are aged 21 or over, you could be just the person we are looking for.
Fostering is more than providing a home; it’s about building the foundations for a child’s future. If you have experience caring for children and the desire to give back, we will provide you with the specialist training and support you need to succeed.
Make 2026 the year you make a difference. Take the first step today. Visit our fostering webpages to learn more:
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