£5,000 grants up for grabs

COMMUNITY groups and sports clubs could be awarded £5,000 each from a pot of money.

Around £70,000 is available to support a whole range of activities and projects, inspired and run by Oldham people.

The new Small Grants Scheme is being run by Voluntary Action Oldham, known to many local community and voluntary groups for funding and volunteering support.

Janet Maloney, from Voluntary Action Oldham said: “I’d urge any new or informal groups of people, perhaps neighbours, parents, activity groups, contacts, friends, who’d like a grant to make their project idea come to life, to get their skates on.

“We’ll support you in setting up a new, not-for-profit group, and you can apply for a small grant to get you going.”

The level of interest has been high and outline suggestions have included walking projects for the elderly, creative writing, clay pigeon shooting and even belly-dancing.

Existing groups are also eligible as long as they have less than £20,000 already available for this financial year.

The scheme runs only until next March.

The closing date for the first decision-making panel is Monday, July 27.

For an application pack or to book an appointment to look over your draft application, ring Janet at Voluntary Action Oldham on 0161-633 6222, or e-mail funding@vaoldham.org.uk 

The first application advice sessions will take place at Voluntary Action Oldham’s offices in Manchester Chambers tomorrow and Thursday, from 10am-5pm.