The National Running Show Community Grant Scheme for 2026, aimed at supporting grassroots running groups across the UK, is now open. This scheme provides financial assistance to help local clubs combat barriers to active participation in running. The grant aims to encourage inactive individuals to become more active, promote lasting sporting habits and develop positive attitudes towards running among young people.
The scheme is open to groups that actively promote physical activity, improve cardiovascular health, reduce stress and boost mental wellness. It also fosters social inclusion, develops future talent and cultivates a lifelong love for the sport. The deadline for applications is Friday 27th February 2026 and the winners will be announced on Monday 30th March 2026.
Spider Runners
When Spider Runners received their grant from the National Running Show, they used it to invest in the skills and people needed to open their club up to a wider range of runners.
The club trained an additional England Athletics Run Leader, allowing them to offer larger events that appeal to a greater range of abilities. Alongside this, members completed their Fell, Trail and Mountain Leader qualifications, again with the aim of making events more inclusive.
Safety was a key priority. The club used part of the grant to complete ITC Level 3 Outdoor First Aid qualifications. As Spider Runners has welcomed a broader range of abilities onto its runs, being properly prepared has become essential. While the club has thankfully never had a serious accident, that preparation has given leaders the confidence to include runners managing health challenges.
The grant also supported a number of mental health courses, reflecting what the club sees as a growing area of need among its members. In addition, Spider Runners has brought on a range of ambassadors, covering mental health, women's wellness, Parkrun and gear. The club's growth has always been limited by how much time its founders can give around their day jobs. Having ambassadors in place, particularly for women's wellness and mental health, means the club can now offer stronger support to runners who might feel nervous about speaking up.et scelerisque.