Supporting Communities Fund deadline for applications in one week
Local groups have one week to apply for funding that could make a huge difference in their communities.
Our Supporting Communities Fund (SCF) offers grants of up to £25,000 for one-off projects or £10,000 over three years for ongoing expenditure.
Last year Greatham Parish Council received £19,000 from the SCF to help extend a popular playpark in the village. New equipment and new surfacing at the village hall park will open it up to more families to enjoy all year round.
Apply to the Supporting Communities Fund
Cllr Adeel Shah, EHDC’s Portfolio Holder for Community Development and Engagement and Chairman of the SCF Grant Panel, opened the park last weekend.
Cllr Shah said: “This fantastic project is the result of the hard work and determination of the people behind the project.
“I am very glad that this has been achieved as a result of the Supporting Communities Fund.
“These grants make a huge difference to the lives of local residents and transform community projects like this one from an ambitious vision to an exciting reality.
“Councils, clubs and community groups all have the chance to secure the funding they need to get their own project moving. Make sure you submit your application by 14 May.”
The playground has always been a very well-used community facility and on a summer’s day there can be upwards of 50 children playing there after school.
However, the equipment was coming to the end of its life and, with no all-weather surfacing, it was only accessible during the dry summer months.
The equipment was previously only aimed at children under nine, but the new facility caters for an older age range and will include a fitness trail for teenagers.
Playing outside has a huge benefit to the mental wellbeing of young people, extending the playground and improving the surfacing will be a fantastic boost for children and families across the village.
SCF applications are considered by a panel of officers and councillors. Those in the Whitehill & Bordon area are approved by Cllr Andy Tree, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Whitehill & Bordon (includes Greatham).
He said: “I am delighted to be able to support Greatham through this Supporting Communities Fun grant. It’s fantastic that this facility is now ready to use and I know that local children will love it for years to come.
“This is a great example of how council funding can make a huge difference to the lives of residents and shows how EHDC supports Greatham.”
The total cost of the project was more than £110,000. Around £90,000 came from developer contributions awarded through the Community Infrastructure Levy by the South Downs National Park Authority.
Subsequently, the area has been further enhanced with equipment purchased through two grants of almost £900 from local councillors Cllr Kirsty Mitchell and Cllr Mike Steevens.
For further information about the Supporting Community Fund, including how to apply before the deadline on Tuesday 14 May, follow the link below.