I've been granted just under £11k to refurbish the outside play area of one of my settings. It will include a large canopy, wetpour all-weather safety surface and a play lodge. I was thrilled with this amount. It means the money I'd set aside for this work can now be used to update equipment inside the nursery and refurbish other areas.
Feedback seems to be that nursery managers and owners are being put off applying for funds for two main reasons: the application process is long and onerous; and there is an underlying feeling that the money is being 'saved up' to be allocated to community projects and charities.
My experience proves this is simply not the case. We are a private, profitable provider. We don't have thousands of pounds in reserves (who does?) but we are a profit-making business.
However, this grant seeks to enhance the ability for settings to provide quality and raise outcomes for children. As outdoor play forms such a huge part of EYFS, it seems logical that applications for outdoor equipment will be looked favourably on, whether from a private or voluntary organisation. As for the process being long-winded, the grants need to go to providers who are serious about the proposed project (hence planning permission) and sustainable (hence financial forecasting figures), and understand what the funds will do for children's outcomes (hence back-up material).
There is no point providing a 'wish list' of items. You need to state what you want, why you want it and exactly what benefit this new equipment will have to the children. I can assure you that the pain of the long application is worth it!