Community groups and projects across Folkestone, Hythe and Romney Marsh are set to benefit from a pot of £90,000 of council grant funding in which Folkestone & Hythe District Council’s member ward budget scheme gives each of its 30 councillors up to £3,000 to award initiatives across the district.
Prior to the agreement of this year’s council budget, it was proposed that the scheme total be reduced by £15,000 as one of a set of measures to eliminate the council’s deficit.
But in step Folkestone & Hythe District Council’s Leader Jim Martin and Deputy Leader Tim Prater who instead opted to reduce their own special responsibility allowance and use that money to top up the ward grant budget.
Cllr Mike Blakemore, Cabinet Member for Community and Collaboration, said:
“Times are tough for many across the country, and no less so for people living close to home. Many small, local organisations do vital community-based work supporting those very residents who need that extra support.
“I would encourage any eligible groups to come forward and apply to their ward councillor for the funding available to help continue their amazing efforts in the district.”
Applications for 2024/25 now open!
Community groups and organisations in the district or those with a connection to the area, can apply for funding. These include:
- Town and parish councils with a community tax of less than £21,000 a year
- Community interest companies
- Charitable incorporated organisations
- Registered charities
- Schools
- Community and voluntary groups with a governing document
- Other organisations working for the benefit of the local community
Requirements
There are a few requirements for applying to the scheme – details can be found on the application page. You can also find out who your ward councillors are and their contact details, by visiting the council’s website