The Council has launched a grant programme for organisations to apply for funding towards capacity building and infrastructure support for local civil society and community groups.
This is part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) which was launched in April 2022 and provides £2.6 billion in funding for local investment by March 2025. This fund supports the ambitions of the Levelling Up White Paper and aims to raise pride in places and increase the quality of life across the country.
Rebecca encourages all eligible to apply as Castle Point has been awarded £1 million for local levelling-up projects.
You are eligible if:
You represent an established organisation this includes community groups, charity, voluntary organisations, Parish or Town Council, Community Interest Company or registered business. We are unfortunately unable to accept applications from individuals.
You must meet the criteria set by government for Investment Priority E11 which states the investment needs to be used for capacity building and infrastructure support for local society and community groups.
You must be able to show an increase in engagement before and after the funding. Engagement can include physical and digital engagements, what is classed as the 'local area' where events are recorded should remain consistent throughout the collection.
You do not need to be based in the Castle Point Borough to apply; however, your project must deliver within Castle Point Borough.
What will my organisation receive if successful?
Revenue only applications will receive between £2500 and £5000 whilst capital only or capital and revenue applications may receive up to £7500.
NB: expenditure becomes capital when the total is £10,000 or over and when it is related to building work, including major repairs to the fabric of the building – not solely replacements fittings.
For each project a minimum of 25% match funding is required, the split available in total between capital and revenue apply accordingly.
This funding can be used to projects and activities that are delivered between 1st October and 31st March 2025
How can you apply?
You will need to complete one form and an excel spread sheet of your budget. You will be required to describe your project and why it is in line with the funding bodies aim.
Both can be found here: https://www.castlepoint.gov.uk/ukspf, alongside an informational video with more details, which Rebecca urges all those applying to watch.
If you need any further support or accessibility adjustments, the council will be able to help you, contact them at [email protected]. Alternatively, you can contact Rebecca’s office using [email protected]
When must you apply by?
The application form and excel time/line budget need to be emailed to [email protected]. The deadline for applications is a two-stage process with draft applications by midday 11 September 2023 and final applications by 27 September 2023.
You can find frequently asked questions here https://www.castlepoint.gov.uk/download.cfm?doc=docm93jijm4n7529.pdf&ver=13069
Rebecca also encourages projects to sign up for the Historic England's Everyday Heritage Grants. Community and heritage organisations across the East of England are invited to apply for funding to tell the stories of people and places missing from the records of history and further the nation's collective understanding of the past. The scheme has already supported 57 projects across England, celebrating fascinating untold stories.
Sean Curran, Head of Inclusion at Historic England, said:
“We’re looking for creative projects which bring communities together, unlocking the stories and celebrating the people and places at the heart of our history. They have shaped our local identities and are integral to our country and culture.”
For more information visit https://historicengland.org.uk/everydayheritage/
How to apply
To apply, visit https://historicengland.org.uk/everydayheritage/ : applications will be accepted from midnight on the 7th of September and close on the 7th November
You may receive up grants of up to £25,000 whilst applications for funding for smaller grass roots projects starting at £1,000 are also welcome.
Rebecca said: ‘This is a really exciting opportunity for charities across Castle Point to receive more funding to carry on the great work they do, I encourage all those who can to apply. Good luck!’
