New councillor grant scheme launched to support community projects

Community groups and organisations can now apply for funding support for small-scale items to support local groups and projects following the launch of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s new Councillor Community Grant Scheme.

Grants of between £250 and £1,000 are available to help groups and not for profit organisations purchase equipment which will make a difference to people’s lives and help bring communities together following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Each councillor across Basingstoke and Deane will have a £2,000 pot to support projects in their communities until 31 March 2022. The maximum grant that will be available for each project in a ward is £1,000.

Funding is available for voluntary groups, charities, schools, faith groups and town and parish councils for projects which meet the scheme criteria.

The grant funding can be used for items that contribute to key priorities set out in Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council’s Council Plan - strengthening communities, protecting and enhancing our environment, improving safety and planning for the future.

This could include purchasing tools or equipment for a variety of group activities such as community groups, health and wellbeing activities, lunch clubs or play groups.

Cabinet Member for Communities, Infrastructure and Planning Cllr Simon Bound said: “The COVID-19 pandemic has shone a light on the amazing community spirit we have in our borough and has given people more opportunities to explore the facilities and activities on offer in their local communities.

“Our new Councillor Community Grant Scheme will give councillors the chance to support their local communities with grant funding for projects and activities which will make a big difference to residents’ lives and foster thriving communities across the borough."

For more information about the scheme and eligibility criteria, visit www.basingstoke.gov.uk/cllr-community-grants