Torbay Council has made available £200,000 for its residents, community groups and businesses to start projects, or to maintain or improve existing groups, that help improve the lives of those that live in the Bay.
The Community Fund can be accessed in two ways – the Microgrant or Community Action Fund.
The Microgrant is for individuals, neighbourhoods and community groups who are looking for between £25 and £500 to start or support projects in their local area.
The Community Action Grant is for individuals, not-for-profit organisations and small businesses who can apply for up to £15,000 so they can take community action in their local area and Torbay. Small businesses will need to be occupying a property, or part of a property, with a rateable value of £15,000 or less.
Both pots of funding can be used to support projects which contribute to the visions that are in the council’s Community and Corporate Plan. These are:
- Create or develop new groups, activities and places that improve local communities and the lives of people of all ages who live there.
- Maintain or improve existing groups, activities or buildings that benefit the local community.
- Develop and support culture in Torbay, making it a better place to live, work or learn.
- Encourage groups and communities to come together to support themselves and others.
When applying all projects need to highlight the benefit to the wider community and show that community engagement and co-production in the design and delivery of the project has taken place. This will show there is a real community need for the project.
Councillor Steve Darling, Leader of Torbay Council, said: “Due to historic Government cuts we recognise that we have less capacity to do things for our communities. We want to enable and support you, and this is why we have made the Microgrants and Community Action Grant available. We want to invest in our communities, help you to develop the resources and resilience to achieve your own aspirations, and work with you to support our communities to provide long-lasting solutions.”
Councillor Darren Cowell, Deputy Leader of Torbay Council, said: “Through the result of strong financial management we are really pleased to be able to make these funds available. We really welcome applications from any group, person or business who have a good idea which will support a group of people and highlights the benefit to the community. We will consider all applications on their merits, considering how the project will deliver outcomes which support our aims of One Torbay, whilst demonstrating strong community support and need. So if you have an idea, large or small, I really encourage you to take a look at these grants and apply.”
Microgrants – who can apply:
Individuals will be encouraged to apply for Micro Grants to fund projects which are for community benefit.
Community Action Grant – who can apply:
Applications are encouraged from constituted and not-for-profit Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector groups and organisations within Torbay, or a combination of groups working together. They should be representative of their local area.
Applications may be considered by organisations that are based outside of Torbay if the sole benefit of the project is for communities within the Bay.
Eligible bodies may be, but are not limited to:
- Brixham Town Council
- Constituted Neighbourhood Committees, Residents Associations, Community Groups and Voluntary Organisations
- Social Enterprises
- Community Interest Companies
- Community Benefit Societies
- Charities and trusts
Consideration will also be given to applicants who are sole traders and small businesses provided the project is mainly for community benefit.
For more details, to read the terms and conditions and information on how to apply visit: www.torbay.gov.uk/community-funding
