Deadline looms for community grant scheme

Voluntary, community and social enterprise groups in Sunderland are being urged to apply for a grant scheme designed to help them during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Local Support Scheme grants – either £1,000 or £10,000 – are for organisations based in and delivering in the city but groups only have until midnight on Sunday, to apply.

Coun John Kelly, cabinet member for communities and culture, said: "We put this scheme in place because we understand that many organisations have experienced additional financial pressures during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"So far we have been able to support 69 voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations, who play a crucial role at the heart of their communities.”

Grants of £1,000 are available for small organisations – residents’ associations, sports clubs and community groups – which have basic governance in place before March 11.

Grants of £10,000 are available to larger organisations which operate from community buildings and have had to close due to the crisis and/or are losing a regular income which would usually cover expenditure costs.

It is aimed at registered charities, Community Interest Companies with three or more non-related directors, or larger community groups established before March 11.

Organisations are eligible even if they are currently in receipt of a grant from a council Area Committee.

Organisations can apply online at https://www. sunderland.gov.uk/vcsegrants and, if successful, can expect payment to be made within 14 working days.