Funding boost for community projects in Washington
The first three organisations to be awarded funding through the Washington Pride in Place programme have secured a combined £12,816.
The Washington Pride in Place Programme aims to put power into the hands of local people by awarding small grants to local groups and charities to help regenerate their area.
In this first round of grant funding, Washington-based charity The Special Lioness has been awarded £4,596 to purchase a Musii Musical Inflatable, an interactive music system designed for children and young people with additional needs.
The equipment will be used during group sessions, events and sensory activities to help develop emotional regulation, social interaction and inclusive play.
Melanoma-Me Foundation has received £4,438 to purchase new furniture for its counselling and training rooms, creating welcoming, accessible and therapeutic spaces for people affected by cancer and the wider community.
The improvements will enhance support for people living with melanoma and other cancers by providing safe, comfortable environments for counselling, peer support groups, wellbeing activities and educational workshops.
Oxclose District Young People's Project (ODYPP) has been awarded £3,782 to purchase equipment to enhance delivery of community events and activities.
The organisation will host a free family fun day on the 11 August to celebrate International Youth Day, bringing together residents of all ages through inclusive activities that promote community connection and wellbeing. The equipment will also allow ODYPP to deliver more and better events in the future.
The Washington Pride in Place Programme awards small grants to local groups to help deliver ambitions set out in the Washington 4-year Pride in Place Investment Plan, which was shaped through community engagement. Funding could support improvement in community facilities, which support education, health and employment.
Ruth Walker, Chair of the Washington Pride in Place Programme Board, said: "The projects selected for funding reflect priorities that local people have told us are important to them - from opportunities for young people and families, to inclusive activities for children with additional needs and improved wellbeing support for those affected by cancer.
"This funding is helping local organisations invest in equipment, facilities and improvements that will benefit residents for years to come. By giving community groups the resources they need to enhance what they offer, we can help create lasting benefits across Washington. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these projects will have."
Applications to the grant scheme are considered by the Washington Pride in Place Programme Board through a robust assessment process, ensuring funding is targeted towards projects that will deliver clear and lasting community benefits and contribute to the wider aims of the programme.
Voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations, not-for-profit organisations and registered charities that are based in, or deliver services within Washington, can apply for capital grants of between £1,000 and £5,000.
To find out more about the programme, the grant scheme and upcoming workshop dates, visit www.sunderland.gov.uk/washington-pride-in-place or email [email protected].
