Nottinghamshire County Council reopens Covid community fund for grant applications from grassroots groups

Nottinghamshire County Council has reopened its COVID-19 community fund to help grassroots community groups support vulnerable residents amid the challenges of a second national lockdown.
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The fund, which distributed almost £700,000 to more than 250 projects between March and September, is available for immediate applications with the same criteria as before.

Established local charities and voluntary groups, including faith-based organisations, as well as lower-tier councils can apply for grants of up to £10,000.

County council leader Cllr Kay Cutts said: “The community fund played a key part in the council’s response to supporting communities during the first national lockdown.

Nottinghamshire County Council has reopened its COVID-19 Community Fund to support local community and voluntary groups.Nottinghamshire County Council has reopened its COVID-19 Community Fund to support local community and voluntary groups.
Nottinghamshire County Council has reopened its COVID-19 Community Fund to support local community and voluntary groups.

"It focused on the immediate issue of helping our most vulnerable residents who were unable to get out and about. This funding enabled those groups already doing excellent work in our communities to go above and beyond in providing additional care and support.”

She added: “I’m proud that we are reopening the community fund once again in order to support those in our communities who need it the most.”

One of the Bassetlaw groups to benefit from the first round of funding was the Clay Responders 2020, which received £10,000 to run a 125 person volunteer operation covering the Sturton ward.

The Well Community Projects in Retford received £3,000 to meet extra demand for its debt advice service, supplement local food banks and tackle loneliness and social isolation.

Coun Cutts said: “I want to thank local organisations, groups and charities for their hard work and dedication.

"It has made a real difference to thousands of people’s lives. We will continue to ensure that these groups are able to help our residents get through a very tough time.”

To check the eligibility criteria and apply, or to see the full list of groups who have allocated funds, go to: www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/communityfund.

The council is also offering support via its £858,000 emergency assistance fund for organisations such as food banks and soup kitchens for families who are struggling to afford food and essentials.

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