Together We Play (grant now open)

Together We Play: A New Wave of Joy Coming to Waltham Forest

If you’ve ever wished Walthamstow felt a little more connected, a little more joyful, or a little more full of life… this is your moment. Together We Play is landing in Waltham Forest, and it’s all about unlocking the power of play to bring people together.

This isn’t just about games or toys. It’s about wellbeing, belonging, and giving everyone, no matter their circumstances, a chance to feel part of something vibrant and fun.

Why Together We Play?

Play is magic. It boosts mental and physical health, helps people feel less alone, and sparks the kind of connections that make communities thrive. But not everyone gets the same access to safe, welcoming places to play.

That’s where this initiative steps in. Together We Play is part of a bigger mission to make Waltham Forest a fairer, more inclusive borough, one where everyone can enjoy the benefits of play, from toddlers to grandparents and everyone in between.

A £50,000 Fund to Bring Ideas to Life

This is your chance to dream big. The fund is offering £50,000 to support community-led play projects across the borough. Groups can apply for up to £5,000 each to create activities that open doors for people who often face barriers to play, like:

• Families in temporary accommodation
• Young carers
• Children and young people with SEND
• Migrant families
• Low-income households
• Intergenerational groups
• Anyone who could use a little more joy and connection

And of course, Walthamstow being the beating heart of Waltham Forest, we strongly encourage Walthamstownians with great ideas to get people playing, connecting, and smiling, to drop whatever they’re doing and make an application.

How to Get Involved

Before you hit “submit,” there’s an online information session where you can get tips, ask questions, and make sure your idea shines. It’s friendly, helpful, and designed to give you the best shot at success (see button below). You can also check the guidance here

Projects will run between May and October 2026, and applications close on Thursday 19 February 2026.

Information Session Thursday 22 January 12:30pm–1:30pm

If you need the application in a different format or have accessibility needs, just drop a message to connectingcommunities@walthamforest.gov.uk the team is there to help.

🗓 Key Dates

• Applications open: 8 January 2025
• Info session: 22 January 2025
• Applications close: 19 February 2025
• Panel review: March 2026
• Winners announced: March 2026
• Projects begin: May 2026

You’ll hear back within six weeks of the deadline, so keep an eye on your inbox (and maybe your junk folder too).

Got Questions?

Whether you’re unsure about eligibility, need help shaping your idea, or just want to talk it through, the team is ready to chat. Reach out anytime at connectingcommunities@walthamforest.gov.uk.

Ready to Make Something Amazing Happen?

This is a chance to bring joy to your community, strengthen local connections, and create playful moments that people will remember long after the project ends.

If you’ve got an idea, even a tiny spark of one, now’s the time to run with it. Walthamstow is ready to play. Are you?