£50,000 funding pot for voluntary wellbeing projects

A spokesperson for South Hams District Council is inviting voluntary groups in the South Hams to apply for their share of a £50,000 funding pot to support wellbeing projects across the District.

"Voluntary groups in the South Hams  are invited to apply for their share of a £50,000 funding pot to support wellbeing projects across the District.

South Hams District Council has launched a new grant for local voluntary and community groups. Worth up to £2,500 per group, the money can be used for any project or scheme that makes a positive difference to the health and wellbeing of local people. Community groups should apply for a grant at www.southhams.gov.uk/covid-community-fund by 7 March 2022.

The £50,000 funding has been sourced via Devon County Council. It is part of the District Council’s stated commitment to take positive, practical action to improve health and wellbeing.

Applications are welcomed from all voluntary community groups in the South Hams, from local youth groups and befriending services to community transport organisations and sports clubs. Grants worth up to £2,500 will be made to those groups who can demonstrate that the money can be used to improve health and wellbeing. This could include, but is not limited to, projects to make it easier for more people of all ages and abilities to:

• Develop new friendships and reduce loneliness
• Learn new, healthy cooking skills
• Gain confidence or a sense of belonging
• Explore our natural environment and countryside
• Play a new sport or physical activity
• Enjoy gardening
• Get creative with art and crafts 

Cllr Jonathan Hawkins, South Hams District Council’s Executive Member for Leisure, Health and Wellbeing said: “Our voluntary groups and organisations across the South Hams are doing amazing work already, supporting their communities and making a real difference to health and wellbeing. They understand what support and activities local people need and are perfectly placed to genuinely help others to get active or improve mental health. By working together with these valued volunteers and organisations by giving them the money they need to do even more good work, we know that we can genuinely improve wellbeing for local people.

“Whether your local community group or club needs money to organise a special event or to give you the resources to help more people, get in touch. Tell us what you want to do to improve wellbeing in the South Hams and how the money will help you achieve this. The online form is quick and simple to fill in and your group could benefit by up to £2,500.” 

Community groups should apply for a grant at  www.southhams.gov.uk/covid-community-fund by 7 March 2022".