Success of Community Grants Fund
More than 500 people have benefited so far this year from services provided by organisations that received money in the second round of our Community Grants Fund.
After feedback from the first phase in 2021 showed how much of a difference the scheme was making for our customers and their communities, a second round was launched earlier this year.
Just under 3,000 people were helped by services funded by the grants in the first phase.
Karen Prince, Head of Community Investment, said: “It’s been amazing to see the success of our first ever Community Grants Fund.
“The reach and impact that it’s had for our customers and communities has far exceeded our expectations.
It’s important for us to work with and support those organisations that provide vital services to our customers and local communities.
“Unfortunately, whilst we’ve emerged from a post-Covid world, there remain significant challenges which our customers and communities face.
“It’s important for us to work with and support those organisations that provide vital services to our customers and local communities.”
In the second phase, 12 applicants were successful following a rigorous application process, with each organisation receiving up to £5,000.
Sue Crask, Community Programmes Manager, said: “The organisations we’re currently supporting provide a range of different services, and, after the first six months, we’re already seeing the difference that the grants are making.
“More than 500 people have engaged in a programme or service funded by the grants and we expect this figure to rise.”