COMMUNITY groups and charities supporting Basingstoke and Deane residents struggling with the cost of living will be eligible to apply for a new fund.
Community and voluntary organisations play a key role in supporting residents in need or facing difficult financial situations. Now Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council is recognising this by partnering with the Greenham Trust to establish the Cost of Living Community Fund.
The joint scheme will be open to any not-for-profit community or voluntary sector organisation located and delivering services in the borough of Basingstoke and Deane.
Applications to the scheme will need to demonstrate clearly how the funding will help the borough’s residents with the rising cost of living, providing evidence there is a real community need for the resources the funding is being sought for.
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The total budget allocated to the community grant scheme for 2022/23 is £85,000, and organisations can apply for a grant of up to £5,000. Under exceptional circumstances, a grant of more than £5,000 may be awarded.
Cabinet member for partnerships Cllr Jenny Vaux said: “Community and voluntary groups play a vital role in our borough and we value their contribution. The council has a strong track record of supporting organisations to make a real difference in their communities.
“During this time of rising bills and energy costs, it is important that where possible we give additional support to the organisations that are struggling with the increasing demand to assist residents.”
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Grenham Trust chief executive Chris Boulton added: “Residents are under ever-increasing financial pressure and this fund is really important to help local charities and organisations to support those in need.”
Organisations can find out more and apply online at thegoodexchange.com/nh-cost-of-living/.
The council has already established direct support for residents through the Cost of Living Assistance Fund to help those facing financial difficulties due to rising energy costs and inflation. The level of council support to the Basingstoke and Tadley branches of Citizens Advice has also been increased due to evidence of their rising workload owing to the number of residents contacting them for information and advice at the current time.
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