Groups driving for change in South Holland are being invited to apply for a slice of a £4.3 million funding pot.
The nationwide Our Place programme will benefit communities across the district, including in some of the most deprived neighbourhoods, giving residents a say in tackling local issues and shaping the public services they want.
Funded by the Department for Communities and Local Government, support is made available through Locality and the Local Government Association to make local services, such as adult social care, health or employment, better for all.
Locality, the leading nationwide network of community enterprises, assists people to work together to create and capture local wealth for the benefit of communities.
Groups can apply for direct support and grant funding.
Stephen Williams MP, Communities Minister, said: “The Our Place programme will help local communities across the country take more control of their neighbourhoods to tackle local issues.
“Locality, the LGA and their partners have a wealth of experience in working with communities and public service providers and I wholeheartedly encourage any group with an interest in changing their neighbourhood for the better to apply and take advantage of the support that is on offer.”
Sir Merrick Cockell, chairman of the Local Government Association, said: “This is an excellent opportunity for residents to shape the services in their areas and play a part in their delivery.
“We are excited to see the different ideas communities and groups come up with and we look forward to working with them and seeing such projects develop.”
Our Place is already starting to make a difference in 12 pioneer areas.
In Poplar, East London – a partnership between Poplar Harca, a housing association, a GP practice and the community – has identified healthcare as a local priority and is now setting up a network of health volunteers to better support people with long-term conditions.
One Ilfracombe in Devon, working with Ilfracombe Town Council, is bringing together the community and local partners to reshape public services to address issues of social isolation, tackle youth unemployment and attract new businesses.
It is expected that there will be a surge of applications with already more than 250 organisations and individuals emailing Locality, so interested groups are encouraged to apply early.
The support programme will comprise grants, direct support and shared learning activities, including a champions’ network, peer groups, webinars and other events.
Visit the My Community Rights website at www.mycommunityrights.org.uk for information, resources, inspiration, advice and to apply for support and grants.
Follow the project on Twitter at #ourplace @mycommrights and facebook.com/MyCommunityRights