Council grant scheme starts today

Community groups and organisations could share in a major funding opportunity that starts today.

Over the next two years the council’s community investment fund (CIF) will provide £1.2 million to community-led projects that address the priorities of the five local action partnerships (LAPs).

The LAPs cover Strathearn and Strathallan, Perth City, Kinross-shire, Almond and Earn, Eastern Perthshire and Highland and Strathtay.

Each is made up of representatives from public services, the local community and councillors from the area.

Their purpose is to tackle local inequalities by setting priorities to work for and with the community.

Applications of between £3000 and £50,000 to the CIF will be accepted from a wide range of organisations such as community councils, development trusts, parent teacher partnerships, social enterprises, registered charities, community interest companies and other constituted community organisations.

The CIF is not open to applications from individuals or businesses.

Council leader Murray Lyle said: “The CIF is here to provide funding towards community-led projects and initiatives that respond to ward priorities and tackle inequalities, make a positive impact on as many people as possible and meet needs that are not currently addressed in other ways.

“Consideration will be given to applications for a range of reasons: for example, community management of a local facility or improvements to a community building, developing outdoor spaces, running community events or activity programmes, training volunteers and purchasing equipment or materials to benefit the local community.

“I look forward to the CIF receiving many applications for support to make a real difference locally.”

The CIF is open to applications from groups in Perth City; Kinrossshire, Almond and Earn, and Strathearn and Strathallan until October 12.

It will open on November 12 for applications from groups in Eastern Perthshire and Highland and Strathtay, with a closing date of February 15.

For more information see www. pkc.gov.uk/cif