Community Activity Fund Helps Local Project

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Community Activity Fund has so far approved support for 28 vital local projects.

The fund, which was refocused in May, aims to support the positive work that is being undertaken by organisations and individuals doing invaluable work to help others at this time.

Since being refocused, the fund has given out over £7,700 to help community based projects. Local groups are invited to apply for a grant of up to £300 – or £500 in exceptional circumstances.

One local community group that has benefited from the fund is Brynna Community Centre, due to their support of the unique “Brynna Doggie Bags Project”, which aims to tackle dog mess in their local area.

The scheme was awarded £240 through the Community Activity Fund and ensures that dog mess bags are readily available for dog walkers, with containers housing the bags situated in 40 key dog walking locations across the village.

This innovative idea that was previously funded by donations from the local community and private sector funding has previously led to a reduction of dog mess on the streets. Thanks to the grant secured through the Community Activity Fund and the amazing work of the local volunteers, the scheme can now continue in the area.

During the current coronavirus pandemic, more and more residents have been utilising outdoor spaces for daily exercise and it is perhaps even more vital now more than ever that dog owners act responsibly and ensure that they clean up after their dogs to keep our streets, fields and parks dog mess free.

During these unprecedented times, the Council’s dedicated Streetcare team are continuing to do all they can to carry out their ‘normal’ enforcement duties and as a Council, we would ask residents to help us where they can. The

“Brynna Doggie Bags Project” is a perfect example of true community togetherness in action and ensures that open spaces remain clean and safe for everyone to enjoy.

Councillor Rhys Lewis, Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, Well-being and Cultural Services, said:

“Since the pandemic started, residents and groups across Rhondda Cynon Taf have shown fantastic community spirit.

“Groups of people have come together to help each other and their communities, despite the obstacles they have faced – and this in its true essence is what RCT Together is about. This has also been complemented by the Council’s on-going Community Resilience work.

“We are extremely grateful to the individuals and community groups right across the County Borough who are reaching out to help others. The Community Activity Fund has approved 28 grants to help these causes to date, and it is great to hear about the selfless work being undertaken by the successful applicants – making a big difference to communities at this time.”

The Council has received a significant number of enquiries to the Community Activity Fund, and hope to help as many local projects as possible with the funds available.