Chronic Pain Peer Support Grant Scheme

This grant scheme, funded by Barnsley Council’s Public Health team, aims to support community‑led peer support for people living with persistent pain. The funding is intended to help residents build knowledge, confidence and social connection, enabling them to manage pain more effectively while reducing avoidable pressure on health and care services.

Grants of up to £5,000 are available to local charities, community groups and clubs, either as individual organisations or in collaboration. The scheme is open for applications, with a deadline of 4.00pm on Friday 24 April 2026, and projects can start on a flexible basis.

Persistent pain is common in Barnsley and is often associated with reduced quality of life, social isolation, mental health challenges and financial hardship. The fund prioritises projects that support people who may face barriers to accessing pain management services. This includes individuals living with long‑term pain conditions, people awaiting or recovering from treatment, those who are socially isolated or housebound, people with disabilities or long‑term conditions, unpaid carers, and communities experiencing the greatest health inequalities.

The overall aim is to strengthen community‑based pain management support so residents feel less isolated, improve their understanding of pain, develop practical self‑management skills, and access appropriate local services. Projects should complement clinical care and help prevent needs escalating into crisis.

Funded activities may include peer support groups, peer‑led education sessions, gentle and inclusive physical activity, buddying schemes, practical workshops, and community awareness sessions. Applicants are encouraged to co‑produce initiatives with people who have lived experience of persistent pain. Priority will be given to proposals that clearly address health inequalities and inclusion.

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