Coronavirus: Extra £500K added to county fund for voluntary groups

The county council launched the Communities Fund earlier this month with £1million to be allocated to organisations affected by the restrictions.

But such has been the clamour for support, with nearly 200 applications being made already, the council has decided to increase the funding pot to £1.5million.

Among those helping people in the Melton borough which have so far been awarded funding are Clawson Kindness, Melton and District Money Advice Centre and Age UK Leicestershire and Rutland.

A homeless prevention service and a centre to support youngsters with autism are also among the first community groups to be awarded a slice of the pot.

The first round of the fund will see £560,000 awarded to 46 projects with second round set to be announced by the authority this week.

Nick Rushton, leader at County Hall, said: “The Communities Fund will ensure the work of volunteers and groups can keep communities thriving in these challenging times.

“There has been a huge response so far which is fantastic – and that’s why we’ve decided to increase the funding pot by another half-a-million pounds.

“It’s never been more important for communities to band together and support each other.

“These awards will help groups to continue their crucial work and step up activities to support vulnerable people and those isolating.

“This fund enables people to stay safe by staying at home and ultimately, saves lives.

“I’d like to thank our volunteers and community groups for their fantastic work and I would encourage those who haven’t yet to visit the website to find out more.”

The Bridge (East Midlands), a charity that provides early intervention and homeless prevention services to vulnerable people in Leicestershire is set to receive £9,100 to help them continue helping those in need.

Paul Snape, deputy chief officer with the cause, said: “The funding received from the Communities Fund will enable us to adapt to safe and innovative ways of working during the COVID-19 pandemic, which includes ensuring every staff member has the necessary equipment to continue their vital work from the safety of their own home.

“We will also be able to provide additional resource, both in terms of emergency food provision and triage helpline support.

“In doing so, we will add significant value to the crisis response for vulnerable individuals and families across Leicestershire.”

More than 180 voluntary organisations have applied for funding so far and there is still time for others to apply for the Leicestershire Communities Fund.

Charities, constituted voluntary and community organisations and social enterprises can apply for a maximum of £25,000 for support with running costs and extra staffing up to six months, adapting services, buying new equipment such as PPE, transport costs and expenses.

The deadline for submissions is this Friday (April) - go online at www.leicestershirecommunities.org.uk/leicestershire-communities-fund to apply.