News from: Reading Voluntary Action (RVA)
The Berkshire Community Foundation manages a number of funds which aim to support projects tackling issues affecting older people, such as isolation, health and well-being, and is now open for grant applications. Applications will be considered from not-for-profit, voluntary or community groups, social enterprises/CIC or registered charities, that are actively working in Berkshire. Grants up to a maximum of £5,000 will be considered, subject to funding availability.
To be eligible, applicants must:
-Have a governing document, such as a constitution or set of rules.
-Have a management committee or board of trustees.
-Have a bank account in the name of the group, with a minimum of two unrelated cheque signatories.
-Be able to provide up-to-date accounts.
-Have returned evaluation forms for any previously received grants.
-Have safeguarding and equality policies which comply with current legislation.
-Be helping the disadvantaged and provide a benefit to the community with clear and achievable outcomes.
-Provide evidence there is a need for their work and must not be duplicating the work of other groups and organisations.
-Have an itemised budget.
When reviewing applications, the following will be taken into consideration:
-Organisations who’s project matches the fund’s criteria
-Amount of funding received in the previous 12 months
-Project timelines
-Outstanding monitoring reports.
Funding is intended to support projects and activities for older people over the age of 65 years which:
-Improve health and wellbeing
-Reduce social isolation including befriending schemes
-Improve access to facilities, advice and training
-Provide respite for carers
-Improve access to information and IT, particularly where this involves intergenerational work
-Overcome problems such as illness, injury, disability, bereavement or financial difficulty.
The first stage of the application process is to complete the Eligibility Quiz on the Berkshire Community Foundation website (www.berkshirecf.org/available-funding/funds-for-older-people). Eligible organisations will then be sent an application form link by email. Applications must be completed online and submitted by 10:00 on Thursday 2 May 2024.
For further support from RVA with preparing your application or the policies and procedures required for this funding, contact Herjeet Randhawa at herjeet.randhawa@rva.org.uk.