Groups in the Newton Aycliffe and Middridge who work with young people are starting to benefit from a new pot of funding dedicated to groups organising projects/activities within Newton Aycliffe and Middridge area, which improve the lifestyle, wellbeing and social inclusion of young people.
The Small Grants Fund for Children & Young People fund, which has been developed by the Great Aycliffe and Middridge Partnership (GAMP) and the Pioneering Care Partnership (PCP), is starting to prove a valuable source of funding to all non-profit making organisations in the GAMP areal.
The overall aim of the project is to provide support for groups to organise the projects they would not normally be able to finance.
Groups can apply for up to £1,000 and applications are sought from charities, community groups and any non-profit organisation for projects that will directly benefit the area and improve the lifestyle, wellbeing and social inclusion of young people.
To date 8 local groups have received funding since the first meeting of the grant panel. One of those organisations to benefit is Newton Aycliffe Youth Football Club, who received £600 towards the cost of supporting16 coaches through a Durham FA course.
‘Berni Borsberry, Secretary Newton Aycliffe Youth Football Club, said: “The funding will help increase the skills of our coaches and in turn benefit the 200+ young people who play for the club.”
Brian Riley, GAMP coordinator, said: “A key priority for GAMP is to help support the local community and voluntary sector. It is anticipated that a significant number of local groups will be able to develop projects that benefit young people.”
All applications will be considered, especially those applications that are able to demonstrate one or more of the following benefits:
• Sustained increase in physical activity for 6 months
• Improved knowledge and skills around managing own health
• Self-reported increase in overall health and wellbeing
• Increase in confidence and self esteem
• Increase in social interaction
• Increase in levels of trained volunteers in local communities
Funding is open to local voluntary and community groups working within the Great Aycliffe & Middridge Partnership area. Groups can apply for amounts between £500 and £1,000.  Please note groups can only make one application for this funding, and funding will be allocated on a first come first served basis.
Community groups can get an application pack by contacting Kath Ferry at the Pioneering Care Partnership on (01325) 327 462 or at Kath.ferry@pcp.uk.net