RCT Community Activity Fund update

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has provided an update on its Community Activity Fund, which is aimed at supporting the groups and individuals going the extra mile to help others – and there is still funding available for new groups wishing to apply.

During May 2020, in response to the initial lockdown period due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the Council repurposed the existing Fund to provide important support to community-based groups. The change was intended to complement the Council’s own significant Community Resilience effort, and reflect the Fund’s original aim to support the positive actions of local people.

The Fund has a £10,000 total budget, and groups are invited to apply for a grant of up to £300, or £500 in exceptional circumstances. Individual applications received by the Council are decided on a case-by-case basis and are subject to eligibility and fund availability.

As of Monday, October 19, the Council has allocated funding to a total of 28 community projects, committing more than £8,300 from the Fund.

These 28 projects are at varying stages of completion – and those which have received the funding are helping to achieve a wide-range of tasks. Examples include Fare-Share membership, delivery of services for foodbanks, venue hire, afternoon tea via digital platforms and a dog bag community initiative.

A large number of the projects have also included providing bags or packs for specific groups and causes within the community – including well-being, carer activities, toiletries, baby care and activity packs for youths and families.

Some funding is still available from the Community Activity Fund. To put a project forward for consideration, interested organisations and individuals can email CovidCommunityFund@rctcbc.gov.uk to receive an application form.

Councillor Rhys Lewis, Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, Well-being and Cultural Services, said: “I’m pleased that the Council’s Community Activity Fund has now allocated funding to 28 community projects taking place across RCT. Many of the projects are helping those who have found themselves in need of assistance due to the pandemic, which has had such a large impact on all aspects of society, particularly vulnerable people.

“It is important that we continue to assess and review the funding grants the Council offers to ensure they remain relevant and up-to-date, especially in these very unprecedented times. To that effect, in September 2020 Cabinet Members agreed several changes to existing business grants in response to the specific economic challenges they are facing at this time – including establishing new funds dedicated to COVID-19 recovery and flood resilience.

“These changes follow the Community Activity Fund being repurposed earlier in the year in response to the initial Coronavirus lockdown period. I’d urge any local individuals, groups and organisations who feel their project meets the eligibility criteria to apply to the Council for this funding – which has currently allocated around £8,300 of the £10,000 it has available for the community.”