Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government what is the total amount of money available in the democratic engagement fund; and how that fund is to be accessed by those willing and able to invest in protecting our democracy.

The Democratic Engagement Fund will provide grants to civil society organisations to deliver politically neutral, place-based activities that help people understand, engage with and participate in democracy.

Backed by £2.5 million, the Fund will provide grants ranging from £1,000 to £50,000, with most awards expected to be around £25,000. It is targeted at communities that have historically experienced lower levels of democratic participation and voter turnout.

Access to the Fund was through an open application process for eligible civil society organisations. The application window closed on 31 August 2026, with strong interest from across the sector, including many proposals focused on children and young people aged 5 to 25.

Successful organisations are expected to be informed of funding decisions in January 2027, with delivery from April 2027. The Fund will generate evidence on effective approaches to democratic engagement, informing future policy and practice, and helping to lay the foundations for increased participation and civic understanding.