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Funding Opportunities in our Parish

‘Lack of money is no obstacle. Lack of an idea is an obstacle’  Ken Hakuta

Money frees you from doing things you dislike. Since I dislike doing nearly everything, money is handy..’  Groucho Marks

Well here in Colton I’m sure there’s no lack of good ideas, and as I agree with Groucho that money is quite handy, particularly in these credit-crunchy times, it seemed a good idea to take myself off on your behalf to a Funding Fair recently. This was organised by Cumbria CVS and was a mine of information about what funding pots are available to South Lakes communities. Parish Councils, as a government body, are not normally eligible for grants, but they are able to support and offer advice to other community and voluntary groups.

One of the best places to start, for those seeking funding, is the Cumbria Community Foundation, a sort of ‘One Stop Shop’ to grants available in the county. This charitable trust raises money to give to local groups and also manages a number of different grant programmes on behalf of public, private and charitable donors. The good news is that their application form is easy to complete, they accept applications throughout the year and there’s no more than a two month wait for a decision. Have a look at their website www.cumbriafoundation.org or call 01900 825760 to discuss your project ideas with a grants officer.

Another scheme worth bearing in mind is the Community Waste Prevention Fund (Cumbria County Council). This provides match-funded grants of up to £15K to support new and innovative waste prevention initiatives. The Waste Prevention  Officer, Louise Woods, is happy to discuss ideas which work directly with the community to encourage the practices of reduce, reuse and recycle. Contact her on 01228 227769.

There are also the Cumbria County Council Neighbourhood Forums (or should that be  'Fora' ?!). Cumbria County Council makes grants available to voluntary, non profit making and community groups for community based projects on an area basis.  Local staff can offer help and advice to community groups. See their website for more information.

These are just two places to start, but there really is a treasure trove of opportunities out there if you have ideas, enthusiasm and a bit of spare time!  Funding Fairs are held regularly across the county so if you would like more information from the funders themselves, contact Cumbria CVS, 01539 742627 or 01229 823144.

Brenda Fishwick Parish Councillor West Ward.