A new survey released today by Certas Energy has revealed that nearly a quarter of homeowners surveyed in the East Midlands have been forced to move home in the last five years because of rising house and rent prices.
Only London has seen more residents priced out of their communities, and over a third (36 per cent) of those who have relocated in the East Midlands say the move has had a negative impact on their involvement in their local community.
45 per cent of East Midlands residents say the rising cost of living has made it harder to take part in community activities.
Now in its second year, the Community Bloom Fund from Certas Energy is offering two community groups £15,000 each to spend on a project that matters to their area, whether that means renovating a community centre, investing in a local park or backing a grassroots sports team.
Niki Holt, Certas Energy Solutions Marketing Director, said: "The East Midlands is home to thousands of our customers, and to hear that so many are being priced out of where they live is concerning, when it’s clearly having a huge impact on the connection felt amongst local communities.
"The Community Bloom Fund is for the people who are passionate about supporting their local communities, and not necessarily the ones with the most polished pitches. Whether it’s a playgroup that needs upgraded premises or a junior football team that needs a pitch for the season, we want to hear from groups across the East Midlands with a project that will make a real difference to their community.”
To be in with a chance to secure the funding, community groups are invited to apply between 1st June - 1st July 2026. Applicants should share a summary of the work they do and explain how they would use the funds to support the local project.
Apply by visiting: www.certasenergy.co.uk/community-bloom-fund