GRAB A £2K GRANT AND HELP TO IMPROVE WHERE YOU LIVE
New scheme to fund grassroots projects
NINE grants of up to £2,000 are up for grabs to help fund projects that improve the ‘health and wellbeing’ of people in North Staffordshire.
Individuals, grassroot organisations and groups can apply for funding for new projects that especially benefit those who are more likely to experience ‘health inequalities’.
Consumer group Healthwatch Stoke-on-trent has launched the Community Cash Fund to invest in small grassroots projects and groups that hope to improve the ‘wellbeing of and amplify individuals’ voices’ in their local communities.
The projects do not have to be expensive or complicated but need to focus on one of seven areas: Increases mental health awareness; Improves emotional and mental wellbeing;
Improves access to mental health services;
Carers are recognised, valued and supported;
Young people with additional needs receive the information and support they need to develop and maintain independence;
Reduces obesity and/or increases physical activity;
Reduces drug and alcohol misuse. Healthwatch chief executive Simon
Fogell said: “We have seen, since Covid-19 turned into a pandemic through various lockdowns and the ensuing vaccination programmes, small grassroot organisations develop and provide vital support to the communities they are based within.
“The success of some supporting communities that often experience health inequalities, is down to their dedication and knowledge of those communities in knowing the best way to support and share knowledge and information that people will accept and take notice of, often delivered in non-traditional ways.
“The projects we will fund through the Community Cash Fund do not have to be expensive or complicated to be successful and only limited by people’s imagination and commitment to improving the wellbeing of their local community.
“All will be judged on merit looking at the intended objectives and benefits for people across the seven health and wellbeing strategy objectives we have selected for this grant funding.”
There is no need for the group to be a registered charity or to be an official group, individual applications are welcomed.
Anyone interested will need to complete a short application form by December 10. They will hear by December 17 if they have been successful. Projects will be expected to start in early January 2022 and run for a maximum of 10 weeks, ending on March 18.
More information about the Community Cash Fund and how to apply can be found at healthwatchstoke.co.uk