United St Saviour’s Charity launches new Community Investment Strategy to strengthen Southwark’s community ecosystem
United St Saviour’s Charity (USTSC) has launched its Community Investment Strategy 2025–2030, setting out an ambitious plan to build a stronger, fairer and more connected Southwark. Rooted in the principles of equity, empowerment and prevention, the strategy ensures community organisations of all sizes can thrive and tackle inequity across the borough.
What’s Changing?
Over the next five years, USTSC will focus on long-term, flexible investment and deeper collaboration across sectors. The strategy aligns with Southwark Council’s 2030 vision and reflects our belief that everyone should have the opportunity to thrive, contribute and feel included in the place they call home.
Key features of our Grant-Making
- Flexible, multi-year funding as the default — enabling stability and sustainability.
- One annual open call – for core grants to mid-sized organisations with a turnover of £50,000 – £500,000, reducing admin and freeing capacity for relationship-building.
- Distinct funding streams for small grants, through community partnerships, and issue-based grants, via a new year-round pathway.
- A more relational, less transactional model, guided by trust and transparency.
We wish to see equity, power and prevention grow in Southwark by:
- Funding and nurturing relationships
- Strengthening organisational capacity and resilience
- Partnering and collaborating
- Influencing, learning and sharing insight
“Southwark’s community groups are the heart of local life, and this strategy is about backing them with the resources, trust and long-term commitment they deserve.”
— Barbara Reichwein, Head of Community Investment
Long term goal
Community organisations and initiatives in Southwark will be connected and supported to build power, tackle inequity and effect change as part of a thriving eco-system within the borough
Looking Ahead
The strategy supports USTSC’s wider 10-year ambition to build stronger, more inclusive communities in Southwark where everyone can thrive.
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