Broadland: Council gets projects off to a healthy start
Broadland District Council are helping local projects get off the ground with grants of up to £300.
The Get it Started grants are available to individuals or groups that are keen to bring communities together to form not-for-profit organisations.
Funding can be used for anything needed to get the project started, and could include equipment purchase or hire, venue hire, promotional materials or transport.
Georgina Huggins successfully applied for the grant to support a new yoga group. Health Through Yoga CIC is a not-for-profit company which aims to support people who are facing challenges in their mental or physical health and to teach them skills to improve their health using yoga and yoga therapy.
Funding covered the cost of company registration, a website, admin costs and to fund the first group class.
Georgina said:
“Getting this grant has helped us to feel confident in the work we are doing and that it is needed and supported in our community. As well as this, the Council have been great in supporting us with useful information and other help. It has also been useful to understand the process of grant applications as practice for when we look to apply for bigger funding pots.”
Cawsten Village Hall used their grant to create a Warm Space, where villagers can meet up for a cup of tea and a chat. The group has attracted a broad range of people who like to pop in to play games, complete jigsaws, or just to have a good old fashioned mardle.
The recently established Acle & District Men’s Shed used their funding to help buy machinery for the workshop. Secretary for the group John Williams, said:
“We have been able to build a range of products with the new machinery which The Shed sells to local residents to help with the upkeep. We have also done work for the Parish Council, the local School and Church.
“Our members come from all walks of life and ‘The Shed’ has become a safe haven for all. All members bring a wealth of worldly experience and knowledge and the camaraderie found in ‘The Shed’ has benefited all who have joined.”
Shinkansen Ju-Jitsu Club also benefitted from a grant, which was used to promote the Club and attract members. The family-run Club, which is based in the Dussindale Centre, teaches self-defence and values such as respect and being kind to all.
Broadland District Council’s Cabinet Member, Cllr Natasha Harpley, said:
“If you’ve got an idea for a project or group that will bring people together, than we can help make it a reality. These grants are easy and quick to apply for, so if you’re thinking about how to pay for equipment, publicity material or anything else to get your project off the ground then get in touch.”
If you have an idea for project that brings people together, inspires people to get active, or supports health and well-being, then visit the Get it Started page.