The latest rounds of funding have been announced for voluntary groups and organisations to receive grants to help improve people’s health through art.
The funding, commissioned by Trafford Council, aims to support local activities which focus on arts, culture and heritage. Trafford voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) organisations can apply for grants of up to £3,000 to develop and deliver activities for community spaces, including youth centres and libraries.
The grants can help fostering a sense of local pride and belonging, through investment in activities that enhance physical, cultural and social ties and amenities.
Nathan Atkinson, Trafford Council’s Corporate Director for Adults and Wellbeing, said:
“We’re delighted that we’ve already been able to give out grants to worthy recipients but now we want more groups to apply.
“The benefits of art engagement are enormous. Participation helps us to express ourselves, boosts confidence and improves our wellbeing.
“Engaging with the arts can also help at a community level helping communities to deal with major challenges, such as ageing and loneliness.”
To be awarded funding, groups will need to demonstrate how their application will increase pride in Trafford, help to reduce loneliness and social isolation, improve residents’ health and wellbeing, reduce health inequalities and celebrate diversity.
This project has been made possible thanks to Greater Manchester Combined Authority securing funding to deliver UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) projects, which forms part of the Government’s wider Levelling Up agenda.
The UKSPF has been designed by government to replace the former EU structural funds, with GMCA named as the lead authority for administering the fund in the city-region.
A total of £40.3m will be invested in Greater Manchester’s 10 local authorities to improve pride in place, support creating space for businesses in city and town centres as well as increasing investment to create attractive and exciting high streets, green space, arts and heritage events across Greater Manchester. For more information on the UKSPF go to GOV.UK.
Locally, the fund is administered by Trafford Collective the organisation which supports VCFSE organisations within Trafford.
The deadline for the latest round of funding is 28 April. A fourth round will be open from 1 July to 28 July. For more information on the application process, including how to apply, visit the Trafford Collective website.
Posted on Friday 12th April 2024