Greater Manchester Mayor launches £900,000 community chest

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Jim Battle presenting a cheque to Rochdale Boroughwide Housing and the No Way Trust

Communities across Greater Manchester are invited to bid for a slice of £900,000 to build strong neighbourhoods, boost volunteering and empower the region’s young people.

Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd has launched three funding pots – the Active Citizens’ Fund, Commissioner’s Neighbourhood Fund and the Youth Aspiration Fund. Community groups and organisations can apply for grants from £5,000 to £30,000.

Mr Lloyd said: “There is real ambition and spirit engrained throughout Greater Manchester to bring communities together and make a difference. I’ve met hundreds of people who take real pride in where they live, working together to take ownership of their local area and, with support from agencies such as the police and local authorities, transform their local area.

“This funding will help that work to thrive and empower more local people to work together to build strong, cohesive, and safer neighbourhoods.”

Th three funding pots available are: 

• Commissioner’s Neighbourhood Fund (£200,000): Grants up to £1,000 are available for projects aimed at reducing demand on policing services, building safer neighbourhoods, increasing neighbourliness and encouraging communities to help themselves and others. 
• Active Citizen’s Fund (£200,000): Grants up to £5,000 for projects that encourage citizens to become involved in local community projects and organisations and supports volunteers. 
• Youth Aspiration Fund (£500,000): Youth groups and organisations can apply for grants of up to £30,000 for projects aimed at empowering young people and developing their life skills. 

For more information or to apply for a grant, visit www.gmpcc.org.uk/funding.