30th July 2007, 07/256
Small groups can cash in!
A pot of money has been set aside to help small community projects
flourish in parts of Skelmersdale.
This brand new 'Small Grants Voluntary Pot' has been made available
through the Safer Stronger Communities cash injection of £3.7m to
make Digmoor, Moorside and parts of Tanhouse cleaner, greener and
safer over the next three or four years.
£40,000 has been set aside this year to help small projects and
activities that can demonstrate that they have a positive affect on
both the organisation and the community with long-term
benefits.
Groups who are within Digmoor, Moorside and parts of Tanhouse can
apply for anything from £50 to £1,000 to help their cause.
So far, for example, grants have been given to help youth clubs
purchase equipment and dance troupes with costumes/uniforms.
Margaret Highton, Chair of the Neighbourhood Board, said: "There
are lots of small groups in these neighbourhoods that are doing a
fantastic job and providing lots of activities for the community
but who could benefit from a small cash injection. Therefore, we
have made this pot of money available to help smaller projects
continue with their excellent work."
Any organisation can apply, including voluntary and community
groups or statutory agencies, as long as they can demonstrate that
they meet the criteria. For more information or an application
form, contact Karen Warmington 0n 01695 737807 or email
neighbourhood.management@westlancsdc.gov.uk.
Rosie Cooper MP, Chair of the West Lancashire Local Strategic
Partnership, said: "This latest initiative is an excellent example
of how we are bringing positive changes to the community and how we
appreciate the work that already goes on in the area. Examples of
the types of projects that can be funded through this small pot
include environmental improvements, training programmes, activities
to develop skills among young people, activities to reduce social
isolation, projects that will improve safety, community development
and empowerment projects. So find out today whether you're
eligible."
This grant system for small projects complements the bigger
initiatives that the £3.7m is being invested in.
Some recent successes include £35,000 for youth activities during
the school holidays, the launch of the Skelmersdale and Upholland
Family Project, funding for primary after-school provision, a youth
service bike project and the development of Glenburn Dancers.
Cllr David Westley, Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, said:
"We are working closely with the residents to ensure that we are
continuing to meet their needs with regards to the spending of the
£3.7m. All the projects that have been funded so far demonstrate
that they are empowering local people and are making the areas
cleaner, greener and safer. We're now looking at a number of other
new initiatives that the neighbourhood board are going to provide
funding for, which will have an even bigger positive impact on the
community."
For information about the £3.7m project, contact Chris Skinkis or
Karen Warmington at the Neighbourhood Management Office, on 01695
737808.
Related information
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