Thames Water Engage the River Fund
Fund details & criteria
Fund purpose
Thames Water's Engage the River Fund The Engage the River Fund is designed to empower communities by supporting projects that connect people with their local rivers. This funding can help deliver initiatives that build insight, develop skills, and create opportunities for recreation, all while fostering a deeper appreciation of blue spaces. Our aim is to encourage participation in river-based activities, improve access to waterways, and inspire education and skills development linked to the water sector. What kind of projects could be supported? • Recreational Participation: Initiatives that promote activities such as swimming, paddle sports, or angling. • Projects could also include community-led water quality monitoring to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences. • Community Access and Engagement: Programmes that improve physical or social access to rivers, such as river festivals, guided walks, or cultural events that celebrate the importance of waterways. • Education, Insight and Skills: Activities that build knowledge and technical skills, including school STEM programmes, river surveying and monitoring, or training in river restoration design and planning. By investing in these projects, we aim to create vibrant, inclusive spaces where communities can enjoy, learn about, and care for their rivers—ultimately contributing to healthier ecosystems and stronger local connections. This will be an ongoing fund with applications opening every 6 months in January and June to be reviewed in March and August.