Council announces second round of grants aimed at helping residents to become physically and socially active
Friday, 13 January 2023
We're proud to announce the opening of a second round of the Active Communities Grant scheme, aimed at supporting local organisations to encourage people to become more physically active.
The Active Communities Grant is designed to support local organisations that are working to promote physical activity in their communities. Its aim is to create more accessible and safe spaces for physical activity, promote healthy and active lifestyles through education and awareness campaigns, and to provide fitness and physical activity programs for disadvantaged groups and areas that have been negatively impacted by COVID-19.
The pandemic had an unprecedented impact on levels of physical activity which was acute across disadvantaged groups and areas of higher deprivation. While there are signs of activity levels increasing since restrictions have eased, not all groups or demographics are recovering at the same rate.
Some groups have been more impacted by the pandemic than others. This is the case for women, young people aged 16 to 34, over 75s, disabled people and people with long-term health conditions, culturally diverse communities and those living in areas of higher deprivation.
Eligible organisations are invited to apply for the new Active Communities grant of up to a maximum of £5,000 for each application. The application process is open, and more information can be found on the Active Communities Grant Scheme page on our website.
Councillor Tracey Stock, Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing and Communities said:
We are delighted to reopen the Active Communities Grant and support local organisations who are working to create more opportunities for people to be physically active in their communities. We want to break down barriers and help people who otherwise might not have the chance, to take part in activities. The grant could be to used help train staff and volunteers to become physical activity activators such as walk or cycle leaders, to guide and support those that are currently inactive.
She adds:
It could also be used to fund activity leaders, hire of facilities, equipment and provide transport where those that want to take part are unable to travel due to cost being a barrier to entry. These are just some examples of the many ways the grant can offer support to local groups and organisations. The Council is committed to improving the health and well-being of communities across Central Bedfordshire. The Active Communities Grant is just one of the ways we are working to promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles in our communities.
We would like to hear from charities, not for profit organisations, voluntary and community groups, housing associations, town and parish councils and social enterprises already working with people across Central Bedfordshire.
The grant fund has been specifically set up to support community, voluntary and other not-for-profit organisations that work locally for the residents of Central Bedfordshire.