From funding local projects to rolling up their sleeves in the community, London Stansted has been busy supporting people and organisations across the region during April.
Nearly £80,000 has been awarded to local projects through the airport’s Community Fund, helping young people, sports clubs and charities deliver activities and improvements in their communities.
The funding comes alongside a range of other initiatives delivered in recent weeks, including a jobs fair that drew a strong turnout as businesses across the airport prepare for the busy summer season.
The airport has also continued its work with local schools, with pupils given the chance to go behind the scenes as part of a long-running mentoring scheme with aimed at raising aspirations and showcasing careers in aviation.
Meanwhile, Stansted’s partnership with local foodbanks has reached a major milestone, with more than 20 tonnes of donations collected over the past year to help families in need.
Airport staff have also been getting hands-on in the community. Members of the finance team recently volunteered at Vicarage Mead in Thaxted, repainting benches and improving the patio area for residents.
Fergus Simmonds, Sheltered Housing Team Leader at Uttlesford District Council, said:
“The volunteers did a great job, and the residents were really appreciative. This work has made a real difference to the surroundings.”
London Stansted is also supporting St Clare Hospice’s Lions on the Loose trail this summer, with sculptures appearing across Harlow, Epping and Loughton to raise funds and awareness. Its lion, designed by Darren Gourley, will be on display throughout summer 2026 before being auctioned to support the charity.
Daniel Turpin, Community Engagement Manager at London Stansted, said:
“We’re really proud of the range of ways we’ve been able to support local communities over the past month. From funding grassroots projects to giving our time through volunteering and helping young people learn more about careers, it’s all about making a positive difference in the areas around the airport.
“We are also extremely excited to be sponsoring one of the iconic lion sculptures, as part of this Summer’s Lions on the Loose art trail in aid of St Clare’s Hospice, helping to bring this exciting project to life and demonstrating its commitment to supporting creativity, community, and care.”
The work forms part of the airport’s wider community programme, which includes funding, volunteering and education initiatives throughout the year.
