Guidance and FAQs

About the B&Q Foundation

The B&Q Foundation supports UK charities working to improve the lives of people in need by funding projects that make homes safe, welcoming, and comfortable. We provide grants for essential home improvements and home starter kits—helping individuals and families facing homelessness, domestic abuse, disabilities, illness, or financial hardship to feel more settled and supported in their living spaces.

In 2025, we reviewed our funding approach to make sure we are having the greatest impact possible and giving charities clearer guidance about what we can support. Our focus is now on projects that directly improve home environments, rather than community centres, support hubs, or well-being spaces. We currently offer two main funding programmes: the Home Improvement Fund and the Home-Starter Kits Fund.

Eligibility

Who can apply for a grant?

Registered UK charities are eligible to apply.
Charities must support individuals in need within the UK.
Eligible charities should provide accommodation or support people transitioning into their own homes.
Applicants must be able to submit an impact report detailing the number of beneficiaries.
Charities must demonstrate a minimum of one year’s operation with published annual accounts.
A current safeguarding policy is required for all applicants.

What projects do we support?

Projects must support improvements to homes and accommodation, or supply home-starter packs for people moving into new homes. Only charity-managed properties qualify for home and accommodation improvements.
If relevant, applicants need landlord approval for any changes and must have at least two years left on their lease or rental contract or own the property or outdoor space.
All projects are required to be finished within 12 months, unless otherwise agreed.

What organisations or projects do we not fund?

CICs and unregistered community groups
Youth clubs, sports clubs, hospices, nurseries, schools, hospitals, community day centres, therapeutic spaces
No funding for debt repayment or general operating costs
Retrospective funding (project must not have started before grant approval)
Grants for individuals, political parties, or for religious activities
Projects for improving staff, volunteer, or meeting areas

Application Process

How do I apply?

You can apply to our Home Improvement Fund here and Home-Start Kits Fund here

What information do I need to provide?

You can preview the application questions here:

Can I apply if I have received a grant before?

Charities that have previously received a grant may reapply only after one year has passed since the receipt of their previous grant, provided the funded project has been completed and the impact report submitted. For queries regarding impact report submissions, please contact bandq@neighbourly.com.

Can I apply if I was unsuccessful last time?

Yes, however you will need to apply with a new project proposal.

Funding Details

How much funding can I apply for?

Up to £10,000.

Can I apply for part-funding if I have other sources of income?

Yes, however we will prioritise projects where our funding accounts for more than 25% of the project

Decision & Delivery

How are applications assessed?

Applications are evaluated on four criteria:

Project alignment with our goal of creating safer, better homes for those in need.
Clear response to a significant need among beneficiaries.
Feasibility within the proposed time and budget.
Charity’s experience, staff, and networks to deliver the project.

When will I find out if my application is successful?

Within 12 weeks of submitting your application.

After the Grant

What reporting or feedback is required?

An email will be sent from Neighbourly requesting you to complete your impact survey, 12 months after receipt of your grant. You can preview the questions you will be asked to complete here.

Contact

Still have questions? Please contact bandq@neighbourly.com.