Communities urged to take a leap

Tony Lloyd with cheque from last year’s Youth Aspiration Fund launch

Greater Manchester residents are being urged to take a leap forward for their communities and bid for a share of the Mayor’s £900,000 community chest.

Community groups and voluntary organisations have until 29 February – leap day - to apply for funding to help build stronger, safer communities, boost volunteering and give our young people the tools to make the best start in life.

There are three funding pots – the Active Citizens’ Fund, Commissioner’s Neighbourhood Fund and the Youth Aspiration Fund. Community groups and organisations can apply for small grants up to £5,000, to investment in projects up to £30,000.

Mr Lloyd said: “There is some great work already going on across Greater Manchester, with residents taking ownership of where they live and working together, with police, councils and other agencies, to make a real difference. This funding will bolster this work and give more local people the tools to build stronger, safer, more inclusive communities.

“If you are part of a community or youth organisation and share this ambition then I invite you to bid for a slice of this money.”

The three funding pots 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. 

Information on each of the funding pots, including frequently asked questions and how to apply, is on the website:

www.gmpcc.org.uk/funding

If you have a question you can also contact Mr Lloyd’s office by emailing:

grantenquiries@gmpcc.org.uk

The closing date for applications is 11am on Monday 29 February.