GREAT Western Railway has opened applications for its 2026/27 Customer and Community Improvement Fund, inviting community groups, charities, and voluntary organisations to apply for support for projects that benefit passengers and local communities.

The fund follows the success of last year’s programme, which backed more than 90 initiatives across the GWR network.

GWR says the fund is designed to support small and medium projects that have a clear link to the railway and demonstrate strong community involvement.

Initiatives that encourage rail travel, promote inclusion and diversity, tackle carbon emissions, connect communities, or provide education on careers in rail, public transport awareness, and rail safety are particularly welcomed.

Applications opened on Monday, 5 January, and will close at noon on Monday, 2 February. Projects must be completed by the end of March 2027.

The maximum bid allowed is £25,000, while last year the average award was £11,500. GWR also encourages phased projects, feasibility studies, or research initiatives that could support larger schemes.

Last year’s successful projects included a £24,000 grant for the Centre for Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Bristol, helping to connect deaf communities across the region.

South Gloucestershire Council received £25,000 to install twenty new weatherproof bike lockers at Yate station, making it easier and safer for residents to combine cycling with train travel.

Emma Morris, GWR Senior Community Impact Manager, said: “Our Customer and Community Improvement Fund is a superb programme that allows us to invest locally in projects that have a positive and meaningful impact for our customers and communities.”

GWR operates high-speed, commuter, regional, and branch line services, helping more than 80 million passengers reach their destinations each year.

Local groups in the Forest of Dean and surrounding areas are encouraged to apply for funding that could bring tangible improvements to stations, community facilities, or transport links in the region.