Is your local community group struggling financially this New Year? Community grants are available to independent and not-for-profit organisations working for the benefit of local communities in North Herts.
Grants are allocated through the council’s five Area Committees which comprise of local councillors and meet four times a year, with the grant application process open ahead of each meeting. The latest deadline to apply for a grant ahead of the next meetings in March is 21 January. Although you need to apply by this date, there is time to collate supporting documents before the final deadline of 4 February.
The five areas – Letchworth, Hitchin, Baldock, Royston and Southern Rural – have around £7k, £8k, £7k, £2k and £5k left respectively of the money they were allocated at the beginning of the financial year.
Groups that can apply include constituted residents’ groups, sports clubs, scout and guide groups, schools, as well as social enterprises and Community Interest Companies (CIC) or Community Interest Organisations (CIO).
Grants are given for a range of things such as activities, events, equipment, publicity, training, as well as building works and maintenance and applications must support the council’s priorities – People first, Sustainability and A brighter future together.
Councillor Judi Billing, Executive Member for Community Engagement, said: “The council recognises the significant contribution the voluntary and community sector makes to local residents and we know a lot of organisations have struggled through the pandemic. They have been affected financially as well as having to change the way they provide their services. We work hard with local groups and orgs to enhance the quality of life and wellbeing of our residents and encourage them to get in touch, check our criteria and apply.”
More information on community grants including the criteria, guidance and application form.
There will be other opportunities for community groups to apply for funding in the next financial year.
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