Boxing gloves, rugby kits and book banks - KCOM’s latest Community Grant winners

KCOM has unveiled the latest recipients of its Community Grants Scheme, awarding funding to grassroots organisations across Hull and East Yorkshire that are making a real difference in their communities.

This round of grants sees a diverse mix of charities and community groups supported – from youth sports teams to special education providers and awareness-raising initiatives – all united by a mission to improve lives and strengthen the local communal bond.

KCOM Community Impact Partner Louise Babych said: “This was a particularly strong round for the community panel to choose from. We managed to support six very different groups, all with well thought-out applications and projects that will give long-lasting social impact in their communities.”

Among the recipients is north Hull’s Lionheart Boxing Academy which is more than just a gym – it’s a sanctuary where young people and adults alike can channel their energy, build confidence, and tackle mental health challenges through boxing. The academy received £600 to fund safeguarding qualifications for volunteers and protective equipment.

Head Coach Phil Knight said: “The generous funding from KCOM is a real game-changer. We can now offer more coaching courses and provide essential headguards to keep our boxers safe in the ring.”

Tweendykes School, a special school supporting children with severe learning difficulties, was awarded £895 to purchase five tablets. These will be used by the speech and language team to help non-verbal pupils learn to communicate using specialist apps.

Sarah Nichol said: “These devices will make a significant impact, providing pupils with the means to express themselves more effectively and engage more fully with their surroundings.”

The Ella Street Residents Association plays a vital role in nurturing a sense of belonging among residents of Ella Street. From street art to seasonal events, the association works hard to keep community spirit alive. The association received £250 to support a community Easter event and restore the ‘Birds and Shadows’ street art trail. The funding will also go towards a new artwork design for local KCOM cabinets.

The association said: “This funding has empowered us to create a project that the entire community has engaged with. Whether by participating in the vote to select the artwork design, helping to paint the Birds and Shadows, attending the unveiling ceremony, or simply enjoying the revitalized area of the street, this project has united us all.”

Tourette’s-Syndrome Inclusion in the Community (TIC) was awarded £250 to produce multilingual awareness leaflets and badges for school children as part of their campaign for Tourette’s Awareness Month 2025.

CEO Kim Mitchell said: “Tourette’s syndrome is so often misunderstood. This donation helps us educate children and their families, making schools safer and more inclusive.”

Hull Dockers U13s Rugby League Team are a thriving youth rugby league team based in East Hull. Beyond sport, the team provides structure, friendships, and a sense of pride for local boys, many of whom come from underprivileged backgrounds. KCOM has awarded the team with £1,000 to fund new training kits for all 24 players, helping them stay warm, united, and match ready.

Laura Simpson said: “This funding will make a huge difference. It means the kids can feel part of the team without parents having to worry about extra costs.”

Finally, Skidby Parish Council, on behalf of local volunteers, secured £250 to reinstate a community library box in a new location at the Half Moon pub after the original phone box site became unusable.

“Skidby Parish Council is delighted to have been awarded this grant on behalf of the library box volunteers. It will mean that a new library box can be provided so that local residents can continue to access books and games near to their homes.”

Each of these inspiring projects demonstrates how even small grants can have a big impact – enriching lives, supporting inclusion, and building stronger communities. KCOM’s continued support of grassroots initiatives is helping make Hull and East Yorkshire a better place for everyone.

For more information on KCOM’s Community Grants Scheme or to apply, visit: www.kcom.com/community-grants