£5000 funding available for projects connecting local communities and improving mental health

Crowdfunder and Cornwall Council have partnered up once again to provide support for community projects across Cornwall.

The Social Inclusion Fund is designed to help support small-scale projects that are helping people connect with their local communities, improving mental health and well-being, and building self-confidence. Grants of up to £5,000 are available.

Back in April, the two organisations did a similar project for community groups helping to tackle climate change or boost nature recovery.

To apply, community groups need to have a crowdfunding project or set one up on the Crowdfunder website.

If their activities meet the criteria they can apply for a grant to match fund up to 50% of costs up to £5,000.

Applicants are also reminded to apply for the council's Community Chest Fund, which can award groups up to £1,000 to help with their projects.

Over 35 projects have successfully received funding over the last 3 years, one community group that benefited from the scheme is the Artsemble Wellbeing Workshops, who are helping to reduce isolation in their community.

They are using the power of creativity to connect people with each other, reducing loneliness, and boosting mental well-being. They successfully raised over £10,000 via Crowdfunder, with £5,000 being added from Cornwall Council's Social Inclusion Fund. You can read more about their story on the Crowdfunder website.

Another successful group has been the Liskeard & Looe RFC Girls who have raised more than £6,000 for equipment and kit required to help attract more girls into the sport in the South East Cornwall area, with a donation from the Community Chest Fund. You can read their story here.

These awards are handed out by individual councillors to support projects which enhance local communities, increase resilience and support vulnerable people.

You can find out your local councillor by visiting the council's 'My Area' page on its website.

Cllr Carol Mould, portfolio holder for Neighbourhoods, said: "Cornwall Council is determined to support those making efforts to improve lives within their communities, and I would urge everyone to take advantage of this extra support.

"This extra funding can make a huge difference for a community project, and we are delighted to continue our work with Crowdfunder to reward these amazing people."