Herefordshire Council is offering grants of £15,000 to £250,000 to voluntary and community organisations to create or improve multi-purpose spaces that will benefit local residents.
The funding demonstrates the council’s commitment to building resilient communities by supporting local initiatives that help people access services, connect with others and create vibrant, welcoming spaces.
The grants can only be used to cover capital costs. This means physical works and professional fees directly related to these works. Eligible items would include equipment, furnishings and other major material purchases, construction of new facilities or the purchase of land.
Applicants will need to demonstrate how they plan to transform or improve existing or unused buildings in order to offer opportunities for people to access services or to come together within their local community.
Successful projects will include elements such as IT equipment for statutory service delivery, physical access points for residents to gain information and advice from trained staff or volunteers, community spaces for events, and full accessibility to serve all community members. They must be able to show a need for the service or resource within the community and evidence that it will be welcomed and utilised by locals.
Councillor Carole Gandy, Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing, said:
Herefordshire Council is committed to empowering communities by investing in local spaces that bring people together and improve access to vital services.
We know that in a rural county like Herefordshire, having welcoming and well-equipped community spaces is essential for reducing inequalities and strengthening local connections. As such, I would encourage any community or voluntary sector organisation interested in the scheme to submit an Expression of Interest before the deadline.”
Expressions of interest are open now and will close at midnight on Thursday 6 March. To apply, or for further information, please visit the Talk Community webpage.