Extra cash for support groups is ‘the right thing to do’

EXTRA cash is on offer to community groups in areas of the county where the lockdown has been extended.

Leicestershire County Council is making £100,000 available in addition to the £1.5 million it has already given community groups supporting vulnerable people during the pandemic.

County council leader Nick Rushton said the authority “doesn’t really have the money”, but that making it available was the right thing to do in order to support those supporting others.

Grants of between £500 and £2,000 are available to charities, community organisations and social enterprises such as food banks, which are based in the Leicester lockdown zone or support its residents. The money can be transferred to applicants within three hours of putting in a bid for the support.

Coun Rushton said: “This is the biggest health crisis in living memory, but we will come through this – and the support provided by communities plays a huge part in getting through this difficult time.

“Our £1.5 million fund is a real success story. The response has been remarkable and it’s helping 160 voluntary groups carry on despite the inevitable impact coronavirus is having on their finances.

“A hospice, a homelessness service and a charity supporting young, older and vulnerable people are just three of those awarded money.

“I’m acutely aware how difficult it is for our residents in extended lockdown. And by increasing our fund, we’re providing charities, community organisations and social enterprises with muchneeded money to continue delivering support during exceptionally challenging times.

“Voluntary groups play a fundamental role in supporting people - and I’d encourage them to contact their local county

councillor to find out how they can access this funding.”

The areas affected by the extended lockdown in Leicestershire - Braunstone, Blaby and Glen Parva, Birstall, Thurmaston Ridgemere, East Wigston, North Wigston, South and West Wigston, Glenfield, Kirby Muxloe and Leicester Forests, Oadby, Groby and Ratby, Enderby and Lubbesthorpe – can apply for

between £500 and £2,000 from the fund.

Asked whether the announcement signalled that lockdown would go on for longer than the initial review date of July 18, Coun Rushton said: “I can’t answer that question, it’s way above my pay grade.

“What I can tell you is that these organisations that support others

will likely have already struggled since the extended lockdown was announced, this money is available to them and to any others that may struggle as it goes on.

“We’re keen for this money to help reach those who need support, mental health is a key concern for us, as is helping those who are shielding.

“This pot of money, while not a

mega amount, is substantial. It can and has made a real difference.”

Grants can be used to help with core running costs, extra staffing, adapting services, equipment, community buildings, transport and expenses.

The deadline for submissions is Friday, July 24. Fnd out more at: