Still time to apply for community funding

Groups and organisations in Staffordshire are being reminded that there is still time to apply for local community funding before the applications deadline.

Staffordshire County Council’s Local Community Fund is available to voluntary and community groups, parish councils schools and other organisations   

County councillors have up to £2,500 available to grant to groups that benefit or support the local community.  Projects that offer support to residents with the cost of living are also being considered. This could include projects around advice sessions, school uniform and food, helping to offer a warm place, and projects around healthy eating and budgeting.

Hundreds of groups and thousands of residents have already benefited from the funding.  In 2021, the fund supported 158 different organisations from across the county, with organisations and groups receiving over £115,000.

Victoria Wilson, Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture at Staffordshire County Council said: “Each year, our community funding helps hundreds of local projects that help make a real difference to people’s lives.

“We know that many people are worried about the rising cost of living and extra financial pressures but there are some great local projects and groups out there ready to help.  Getting help early can make a big difference too and our own Here to help webpages can signpost people to the most appropriate support.

“This funding is a great opportunity for groups to get projects off the ground so they can help local people.

“We continue to work with the sector, to help it grow, be sustainable, and to provide essential support to our residents and communities.  This year’s fund is currently open for applications and I would urge groups to check if they are eligible before the deadline at the end of October.”

The 2022 Community Fund is now open for applications and people should speak to their county councillor in the first instance.  Each county councillor has an allocation of up to £2,500 towards funding projects in their area.  The deadline for applications is 31 October and funding must be spent by 24 March 2023, unless otherwise agreed with the county council.

Further details on applying is available at https://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/Your-council-and-democracy/Members/County-Councillors-Fund/County-Councillors-Fund.aspx