Still time for applications to new £1million Social Impact Fund

There is still time for voluntary and community groups to submit their applications to a new £1million fund which has been launched to tackle inequality and exclusion.

The Warwickshire County Council Social Impact Fund was launched in November and is now open to applications from voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector organisations including town and parish councils. Organisations have until 30 December to submit their bid. 

The WSIF has been launched to enable targeted interventions to support Warwickshire's communities and enable community-based support for those disproportionately impacted by COVID. This may include extending or introducing specialist support; or providing additional community-based support where the effects of COVID are felt more keenly. 

Applications?will need to demonstrate a focus on financial, digital, health, social or cultural inclusion; as well as show how they embed a community power and climate change focus. All applications received will be scored, with a positive weighting to those that benefit areas that have experienced higher COVID rates, and areas of the county that experience multiple levels of deprivation. 

Cllr Heather Timms, Portfolio Holder for Environment, Climate and Culture said:  "During COVID, Warwickshire's incredible communities played a vital role, with the grass roots response crucial to our collective efforts to?support vulnerable people and?our progress towards recovery.? 

"The launch of this £1million fund will invest in continuing and sustaining this community powered approach and we want to invite applications from voluntary and community groups across the county.  

"Through the fund we want to be able drive forward Warwickshire's recovery from COVID and address some of the inequalities that exist within our communities. We want to harness the power of communities to tackle inequality and social exclusion. 

"Applications will need to demonstrate how the funding will help individuals and groups to live better lives, particularly focusing on inclusion. And we would be particularly interested in hearing about schemes relating to areas most affected by COVID. 

"The closing date for applications is 30 December so I would urge groups not to miss this fantastic opportunity." 

The Heart of England Community Foundation will be administering the fund on behalf of the council.   

Tina Costello, Chief Executive, Heart of England Community Foundation said: "It's wonderful that the Foundation has the opportunity to partner with another Local Authority to have a real positive impact on the communities that live, work and play in Warwickshire. 
 
"This fund will help local communities heal and thrive, especially those most affected by COVID. It's great to see our organisations come together to help with the recovery stage of the pandemic. 
 
"I'm excited for the future working with Warwickshire County Council and hope our partnership grows from strength to strength." 

Applications are welcome for revenue and capital projects. The application window closes on 30 December 2021.  

More detail on the fund, criteria to apply and how to apply are available through https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/wsif