Decision details

The purpose of this decision is to ensure flexible, small grants reach communities to help set up Community Growing projects. A report containing full details of the grant was submitted to the Grants Advisory Committee for their meeting of 25 April 2024.

To create a flexible, small grants fund totalling £5,000 to the end of the 2025/26 financial year. The scheme will be funded using money assigned by Cabinet from SCDC reserves on 23 March 2023 to support cost of living projects. This will cover the full costs. 

Applications will be assessed by officers within two weeks to ensure a quick turnaround.  Criteria, guidance, and an application form has been created.

The fund will result in small (up to £500) grants to Parish Councils, constituted community groups, schools, and informal groups (the latter where there is written support for the project from the Parish Council or the District Ward member).

Part of the cost of living project agreed by Cabinet on 20 March 2023 including promoting Community Growing initiatives across the district.

Providing funds for groups to grow food will not only support this but also has the potential to create connections in local communities which will have further positive effects on the health and wellbeing of residents.