A fund that will see more than £100,000 go towards helping mental health and wellbeing has been launched by West Berkshire Council and Greenham Trust.
The new Community Wellbeing Fund hopes to boost mental health and physical activity initiatives in West Berkshire.
The council and Greenham Trust have joined forces to launch the £110,000 funding pot designed to help the local community and voluntary organisations support residents’ mental health, wellbeing and access to physical activity opportunities across the district.
Grants will be awarded on a rolling basis, allowing organisations to apply at any time and receive funding soon after their application is approved.
The fund aims to empower not-for-profit groups to deliver meaningful, impactful projects that support people who may be experiencing mental health challenges, feeling socially isolated or lonely, looking to become more physically active and wanting to connect with others in their community
Funding can be used to expand existing services, introduce additional support, purchase essential equipment or launch new initiatives that benefit residents.
Priority of those served will be given to projects based in areas of West Berkshire with the greatest need.
West Berkshire’s executive member for adult social care and public health Patrick Clark (Lib Dem, Newbury Wash Common) said: “Strong, connected communities play a really important part in supporting people’s wellbeing, and this fund is designed to help local organisations make an even bigger difference.
“By working in partnership with Greenham Trust we are able to back projects that give residents the space, support and opportunities they need to stay active, feel included and improve their mental health.”
Head of grants at Greenham Trust, Rob Daniels, said: “We believe that wellbeing starts in the heart of our communities.
“This fund is about giving local organisations the confidence and resources to respond to real needs, from supporting mental health and reducing isolation to helping people be more physically active, which can play an important role in improving mood, confidence, and overall mental wellbeing.
“By working alongside West Berkshire Council, we can ensure funding reaches the areas and groups where it will have the greatest impact, helping local people feel healthier, more connected, and better supported.”
Applications to the fund are now open and submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis by an expert panel.
To find out more and apply, visit: https://greenhamtrust.com/communitywellbeingfund/
