Funding available for community groups across the Forest of Dean

The Forest of Dean District Council is offering not-for-profit voluntary and community groups the opportunity to apply for one off funding to help develop and support the forest's thriving community.

Community Delivery Lead at the council, Lena Maller, said:

"The challenges over the last few years have resulted in increased mental and physical health issues, and so many of the forest's community groups are committed to helping people deal with these. So, it's great that we're able to help these groups support our community.

"If you're not sure whether your group or project meets the criteria and priorities give us a call, this will give us the opportunity to signpost you if this particular fund is not suitable. Please see the link provided or get in contact via phone or email and I'll be happy to assist."

The community grant is aimed at building capacity of the community rather than directly delivering services. This includes projects that help to improve residents' health and wellbeing, reduce social isolation and to community projects that enable residents to reduce carbon emissions and those that respond to sustainable community food.

In previous years, the grant has been used by groups to do a range of things, including purchasing equipment, improving accessibility, and expanding delivery.

The total funding available to groups for 2024/2025 is £19,800 with one-off revenue grants of up to £3,000 available for constituted groups and one-off grants of up to £500 available for non-constituted groups.

In order to apply for the grant, head to the community grants and funding page on our website, and fill out an application form: https://www.fdean.gov.uk/communities-health-and-leisure/community-grants-and-funding/

Applications close on 14 June at 4pm.