The Asda Foundation has announced a £1.25 million investment in 79 community projects across the UK, aimed at “revitalising local spaces where people connect, access vital services and build stronger communities”.

From village halls and community centres to youth hubs and churches, each of the grants will support the development, improvement, or repair of community spaces.

Ranging from £10,000 to £20,000, the money will “ensure small, grassroot groups can continue to bring communities together, and operate from spaces that are safe, inclusive, and fit for purpose,” said Asda

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According to Asda’s latest Community Insight Tracker, 42% of community groups believe that access to safe and inclusive spaces is one of the most important issues the Foundation should support.

Mental health and crime prevention also ranked highly, highlighting the need for welcoming places where communities can come together.

“Safe and welcoming community spaces play a crucial role in bringing people together and supporting essential local services,” said Karl Doyle, Asda Foundation chair.

“Through the Local Community Spaces Fund, the Asda Foundation is proud to invest in these vital hubs at a time when many groups are facing growing challenges to sustain and improve them. Our aim is to strengthen community ties and help tackle loneliness by enhancing the places where people come together.”

Among the 79 projects to receive funding, Autism Rocks, in Fife, has been awarded £17,640 (image above). The group have been providing crucial support to autistic individuals and their families for over a decade.

Asda Kirkcaldy community champion Jean Ritchie presented a cheque to Liza Quin of Autism Rocks.

The funding will be used to upgrade the charity’s recently extended site, transforming an adjacent, empty church building into a calming, sensory-friendly environment for their service users. The grant will also fund the installation of essential safety fencing around the centres outside area, making sure it is a secure place for children to play.

Liza Quin, founder of Autism Rocks said: “I was lost for words when I heard the news, it came as a massive surprise for us, and it’s one we’re hugely grateful to the Asda Foundation for.”

The full list of all funded groups can be found here.