Groups carrying out vital work at the heart of local towns and villages are being urged to apply for the latest round of East Dunbartonshire Council's Community Grants Scheme before 22 December 2023.
The Way Ahead Group, based in Killermont Parish Church, Bearsden, is a lifeline for people who have suffered strokes – providing physiotherapy, friendship, activities and more.
The organisation, which regularly helps 24 people with the support of its volunteers, recently secured a Community Grant and has encouraged others to apply.
Chairperson Mary Munro said, "Definitely go for it – we're delighted. For groups such as ours, the Community Grant and the support we get from the Council is of great importance.
"Our first focus is physiotherapy. There is only a limited block available from the NHS once people are discharged from hospital. We work with two professional physiotherapists and that's a lifeline for a lot of our members.
She added,
But we're not just helping the person who has had the stroke – we're helping the whole family – and there's the social aspect too.
Local organisations can apply for up to £5,000 or £10,000. The Council welcomes applications from groups which:
- Have a constitution
- Have a bank account
- Are not for profit
- Aim to bring benefits to the residents of East Dunbartonshire.
Councillor Gordan Low, Leader of the Council, said, "Organisations such as The Way Ahead Group carry out vital work in local communities and we're pleased to be able to support them.
"Time is running out to apply for this round of the Community Grants Scheme. If you're eligible, please get in touch and allow us to help you continue to make a positive difference in our villages and towns."
As part of the 2023/24 Budget, the Council doubled funding for the scheme – from £100,000 to £200,000. It also allocated £100,000 from the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund.
Applying for a grant is simple. The online form, detailed guidance and eligibility criteria can be found on the Council website.
Way Ahead for Community Grants
A range of eligible activities can be funded – including start-up costs, special projects, equipment, salaries and running costs.
Previous recipients include Brownies, Boys' Brigade and Scouts, football teams for girls and boys, tennis and bowling clubs, and organisations for children and older people.
If any individual or group is not familiar with the grant application process and needs assistance, the Council’s Community Planning team can be contacted by emailing communityplanning@eastdunbarton.gov.uk or calling 0300 123 4510.
Applications are assessed by the Grants Advisory Committee, which makes recommendations for awards to the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Board.
The CPP includes representatives of the Council, Health and Social Care Partnership, Police Scotland, East Dunbartonshire Voluntary Action, the Leisure and Culture Trust, and other organisations providing public services locally.
