East Riding communities 'continue to benefit from Do it For East Yorkshire funding'

The funding is designed to encourage communities to come together after the pandemic.

Author: Benjamin FearnPublished 12th Oct 2021

Since the beginning of July 2021, voluntary and community groups in the East Riding have been benefitting from the Do it For East Yorkshire Community Grant which is designed to encourage communities to come together after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Town Councils, Parish Councils and voluntary or community sector organisations plus others can apply for funding between £500 and £5,000 for activity that:

Brings people back into your community

One-off events and festivals

Improves access to services

Re-start community activities, such as lunch clubs

Focuses on encouraging people who have been shielding to engage in community activities

East Riding of Yorkshire Council says: _"_To date, a total of 71 applications have been approved with more than 50% of the funding already been allocated.

"_We still have approximately £50,000 to give out so don’t delay get in touch with us and start making your application"._

Day Escapes Project from East Yorkshire Community Transport Limited received approval for funding of £4,937.50 to help provide the elderly with access to leisure and social settings. This will support them with new friendship networks following the requirement to shield during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Andy Jackson, from East Yorkshire Community Transport Ltd (EYCT), added: _"_EYCT are delighted to receive a grant of £4,937.50 from the Do it For East Yorkshire Community Grant Scheme for our Day Escapes Project.

_"_By working with our member organisations (Goole GoFar and HART) we will provide their members with a great day out where some of the most vulnerable and elderly members of our community can get out of their homes and away from the four walls they have been staring at for the last year.

_"_They will be able to engage in conversations with other members of their community when accessing our transport and enjoy the Yorkshire scenery whilst travelling to their destination. We will visit a number of locations that provide a sense of excitement and anticipation for those who are in desperate need of something different due to the life they have had to live due to COVID-19."

Talking about Loss also received funding for £5,000.00 to bring lonely, isolated or bereaved people together with a range of activities that will encourage social interactions and create new connections for those affected by the pandemic.

Jacqui Gunn, TAL founder, shared: "_Talking about Loss were thrilled to receive funding, as a result we were able to run a wellbeing day which provided an opportunity for people to connect back with the community and re-engage with local activities. The day had a really relaxed vibe, it was great to see people trying out different activities, and just fantastic to see people smiling and kids playing."_

Cllr Jane Evison, portfolio holder for economic development and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: "_The Do it For East Yorkshire Community Grant is making a real difference in supporting East Riding communities in coming back together after the COVID -19 pandemic. This funding provides an excellent opportunity for local groups, or Town & Parish Councils to coordinate local events, to engage with local residents or for local groups to simply start up again."_

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