January 27, 2012 7.00 am This story is over 146 months old

Cash for community groups from new grant

More funding: Local communities will be able to control and benefit from funding by a national grant scheme.
Events like the annual Carholme Community Gala could receive more funding from allocated grant money

Community groups in Lincoln are benefitting from almost £190,000 in grant money for events and activities from the Community First programme.

So far, Carholme ward received £33,910, Park ward £50,865 and Abbey ward £101,730. The grant is part of a £30 million national scheme.

The national programme means money is provided for groups within communities to hold events, activities or other projects to provide support for residents.

Once money is allocated in Lincoln, local residents work with charity Development Plus to decide how the money is spend over the next three years.

With help from the City of Lincoln Council’s Neighbourhood Team, the panels can set priorities for their area, allocating funding for initiatives aiding those priorities.

Every pound given in the grant will be matched by other money, or an equivalent, such as volunteer time.

Examples of priorities within neighbourhoods are improving the environment of a local park or green space or increasing the range of activities available at night for young people, such as funding a club.

Other projects could aim to increase support for older people living alone or to address graffiti and vandalism in the ward.

Paul Carrick, Neighbourhood Manager at the City Council, said: “This is a great opportunity for local people to decide what’s best for their own areas.

“It puts local people in charge of deciding how money will be spent, and we’re looking forward to seeing the good work that can be done in communities over the next four years.”

Anyone who would like to be involved in the panel or have an idea to help their community should contact Paul Carrick on 01522 541470 for more information.

Source: City of Lincoln Council