Revamped community grants scheme opens for applications

Uttlesford has a vibrant community and voluntary sector, and the council has traditionally provided an annual grant which has helped organisations to run activities and services across the district. 

However, following discussions with voluntary and community organisations, town and parish councils and other statutory agencies, the community grants scheme has been adapted. From next year, grants will be awarded through a service specification process and run over a longer three-year period. There will also be some money available for small one-off projects which will launch in the New Year.

Cllr Petrina Lees, Leader of the council, said: "We have a very proud record of funding our fantastic voluntary and community sector and we will continue to support it as much as we can.

"Unfortunately, like councils up and down the country, Uttlesford is facing significant financial challenges and there is simply less money to go round. This new grant funding arrangement seeks to make the best of the resources available, whilst providing guaranteed funding over a longer period to organisations that are doing great work in supporting our communities."

Community and voluntary groups that work in the following areas will be able to apply for funding under the new grant scheme:

·       providing information, advice and guidance

·       rural isolation and community transport

·       healthy, resilient and active communities, including mental health, sports and leisure 

·       youth services

The application guidelines and application forms can be found on the council's website: www.uttlesford.gov.uk/community-grants.

All applications and supporting information must be submitted by 5pm on 20 December by email to: communityresponse@uttlesford.gov.uk.

22 November 2024