PLEASE READ THESE GUIDANCE NOTES BEFORE COMPLETING AN APPLICATION FORM 

CLOSING DATE Friday 10th July 2026 

What is Neilston Windfarm Legacy SCIO (NWL)? 

It is an independent charity set up in 2018 by Neilston Development Trust (NDT) to manage the investment and periodic distribution of the funds received by NDT after they sold their share in the Neilston Community Windfarm.  

How much grant funding is available annually for community projects? 

The maximum amount available for community grants is determined at the start of each financial year by the Board of Trustees. In 2026/27 this will be up to £40,000. 

Who can apply for a grant from the Legacy fund? 

  • Constituted community groups, associations and similar organisations 
  • Other charities, social enterprises and non-government organisations 

In special circumstances unconstituted local action or interest groups may be considered for funding, at the discretion of the Board of Trustees, but robust evidence of strong local endorsement is essential. 

What kind of projects are eligible for funding? 

Projects need to demonstrate direct benefit to the ‘community of Neilston’, which is defined in NWL’s constitution as the G78 3** postcode area. 

Projects should be consistent with NWL’s Charitable Objectives. Here is a summary:    

  • Protection and sustainable development of community land and assets 
  • Preservation, restoration and improvement of the village environment  
  • Provision of recreational and other leisure facilities to improve quality of life 
  • Promotion of good design, good citizenship, culture and the arts, and interest in local heritage through education 
  • Promotion of trade & industry, training for employment, support for additional needs 

How much can our group apply for and how often? 

Groups may request an amount appropriate to the nature of their project, but NWL should not be seen as the only funder or lead funder of large projects. Groups may also apply for continuation funding, but annual success is not guaranteed. New or less recent applicants may be given priority to ensure a fair distribution of funding. 

MAKING AN APPLICATION 

Read these Guidance Notes carefully before you start to complete the Application Form.  

  • All essential supporting documents should be submitted by email to info@neilstonlegacy.org along with your Application, or separately as printed copies if necessary. 
  • If you do not have access to WiFi or are unable to use IT you may request a paper copy of the form to complete in writing.  
  • If you need support to complete the Application form a meeting with our Secretary or another Trustee may be arranged by contacting: info@neilstonlegacy.org .   

What do we look for in an application? 

The Trustees assess grant applications against the following criteria: 

  • the quality of the narrative – a clear and concise explanation of the inspiration for the project, why it is needed and in what ways it will benefit the community; explain what you hope to achieve and how you will know if you have been successful. 
  • evidence of the need and demand for your project – tell us about the community research or engagement you have undertaken and provide data to show which  and how many people will benefit and why they are a focus for you. 
  • good design – all the elements or stages of the project delivery should be clear, so you may need to provide drawings, photos and technical specifications, or perhaps an activities programme or an event plan.  
  • robust costings – these must be evidenced by contractors’ written estimates/quotes or some other proof of the cost of materials/services required for the project. 
  • other sources of funding – we expect groups to make a contribution to project costs e.g. via membership subscriptions, fundraising activities, funding appeals and/or applications to other local or national funders. 
  • efficient and effective management – tell us about your management committee, who does what and the skills or experience they bring to their roles; if you will also rely on volunteers explain how they will be trained, organised and supported. 
  • success and sustainability – how will you know if your project has been successful? you need to set yourself specific, realistic and measurable goals before embarking on your project; you also need to consider how it has impacted on the village and whether it has a sustainable future. What is your project’s legacy for Neilston? 

What happens next? 

  • An acknowledgement of receipt will be sent to the applicant. The Board of Trustees will meet as soon as possible after the closing date to consider all applications.     
  • The time taken to complete the assessment will vary depending on the complexity of the project. The Board may need to take advice from independent specialists if they deem this appropriate. Applicants are often asked to provide more information in answer to written questions. Occasionally they are invited to meet with Trustees to discuss the project in detail. 
  • Requests for small grants (up to £2,500) can usually be assessed within 4-6 weeks, but for larger grants the process generally takes several months and may on occasion take much longer. It is important therefore that you factor in a realistic and flexible start date for your project. 
  • Funding will not be given for any materials bought or services procured in relation to the project which pre-date NWL’s final decision on your grant application.  
  • Once an application has been approved a written offer of grant will be made to the applicant, who will require to confirm in writing that they wish to accept this offer and the conditions attached. 
  • Before an approved grant is paid you will require to supply NWL with details of your group’s or organisation’s bank account and copies of its three most recent bank statements. Grants may be paid by NWL in instalments, depending on the nature and duration of the project.    
  • Sometimes an offer in-principle will be made first, to give the group or any other funders an indication that NWL wishes to support the project providing that certain other conditions or expectations will be met in due course. 
  • If your application is unsuccessful you will be informed in writing and given as much guidance as possible to assist you with any future applications. 

What are the Conditions attached to NWL Grants? 

In addition to any general conditions contained in these Guidance Notes the full list of Grant Conditions 2026 are outlined separately.  

Data Protection  

Please refer to the Privacy Policy for information on how we will protect any information shared with us relating to your application for funding.       

Last Edited April 2026