Archives: FAQ - Savings

The Ecology Community Scheme is not yet open for applications.

Full details on funding rounds, criteria and how to apply will be shared here once the scheme launches.

The Ecology Community Scheme is supported in part by our Rhondda Cynon Taf Community Impact Saver.

This savings account allows members to earn interest while also contributing directly to community impact.

Key features:

• 2.00% interest, plus an additional 1.00% donated to the Rhondda Cynon Taf Community Scheme
• Interest calculated from monthly average balances
• Annual and monthly interest options available
• Account matures into a standard Easy Access account on 31 December 2029

 

The scheme is open to a range of not‑for‑profit organisations, including:

• Registered charities
• Residents’ and community groups
• Community Interest Companies (CICs)
• Other not‑for‑profit organisations

To be eligible, organisations must:

• Be based in Rhondda Cynon Taf
• Deliver work that aligns with at least one of the four focus areas above

To ensure the Ecology Community Scheme supports initiatives aligned with its purpose, there are some requests we’re unable to fund at this time, including:

• Political causes or campaigns
• Religious causes
• Overseas travel
• Personal sponsorship
• For‑profit businesses
• Retrospective funding
• Ongoing operational costs (such as salaries or debt repayment)

The Ecology Community Scheme focuses on projects and initiatives that fall into one or more of the following areas:

• Benefitting the environment – Projects that protect, enhance or restore the natural environment, promote sustainability, or support local environmental action.
• Promoting financial resilience and wellbeing – Initiatives that help individuals and communities build financial confidence, resilience and security.
• Supporting safe and secure homes and communities – Projects that contribute to safe, stable housing or strengthen the security and wellbeing of local communities.
• Supporting local communities – Activities, services or initiatives that bring people together and provide meaningful support to the local community.

 

This depends on the balance of your existing account, as you can only pay in a maximum of £250 for your first deposit. You will need to open a Regular Saver account first, and then you could make your first payment as a transfer from your existing account.

You can open an account for someone else using our Beneficiary account application form. This form must then been emailed or posted to Member Services. Once open the account can be viewed online or in the app.

Yes, you can request a withdrawal by post. You can download a withdrawal form from our website or call Member Services and they will send one to you. Your funds will be paid into your linked account.

Yes, you can apply for any of our accounts by post. Simply call Member Services and they will send you all the information you need to apply.

A standing order needs to be set up from your linked account. You will need to choose which date you would like the money sent to your Ecology account and the frequency. You will need to set this up with the bank that you have your linked account with.