Rail firm seeks projects to support
A NEW community fund launched by GWR is now inviting applications that will support local communities and address areas of social need.
Bids and ideas of all shapes and sizes are invited by the end of June 2022.
Groups must show a link to the railway, and their idea must seek to provide a community benefit or make a difference at a local level.
GWR Business Development Director Tom Pierpoint said:
“The Community Fund is a fantastic opportunity for us to invest in our communities, and in projects that really make a difference at a local level.
“We have had a really broad variety of bids that have been successful in the past.
“They range from small infrastructure projects at stations or close to the railway, to outreach programmes, to projects focusing on inclusion and diversity, to feasibility and research studies.
“They might be about promoting rail travel, supporting economic and environmental goals or making the railway more accessible and integrated with active travel.
“We are committed to improving the journeys of our passengers, as well as the economic prosperity and social footprint of the regions and communities we serve.
“We want to see new ideas and as many bids as we can get.”
All funding applications will be treated on their own merits and on the benefit they would bring to the community.
Recently successful projects have included: £16,000 to transform a run-down goods shed into a community hub; £25,000 to train barbers as mental health advocates; £15,000 to provide creative rural workshops for youngsters; £64,000 to support Samaritan’s life saving work; and £45,000 to provide work experience for 50 young people.
GWR wants to hear from communities keen to improve their local area.
All proposals must be submitted by Monday, June 27.