Croydon’s communities helped with funding through local ward budgets

Nearly £100,000 has been awarded to community projects across the borough since April, as ward budgets continue to empower Croydon residents and make a difference in communities across the borough.

Community ward budgets were introduced three years ago and enable local residents and organisations to bid for funding from their local councillors to support the schemes and initiatives that matter most to them.

Each of the borough’s 70 elected members can spend up to £8,000 throughout the year on local projects, needs or priorities in their area.

So far this year £99,339 has been given in support of dozens of initiatives.  Funding was awarded from seven ward budgets, for Cut It Out, an event for parents, carers and service providers designed to combat knife crime, which was attended by more than 1,000 people at Selhurst Park in May.

Andrew Brown, chair of the Croydon BME Forum who helped organise the event, said: “The community ward budgets are a great way for Croydon residents and groups to apply for funding to help a local cause. Without this funding being available the event would not have been possible.”

The ward budgets have also supported a range of smaller projects, including a family fun day on Purley Way Playing Fields which received funding from Waddon councillors, while the Purley Oaks and Riddlesdown ward budget contributed to the cost of providing tennis coaching to disabled people and an outreach programme for school children with learning difficulties and autism.

In Woodside, the community ward budget helped arts and community groups hire Stanley Halls at significantly reduced rates, while Selsdon and Addington Village’s community budget covered the installation cost of a community noticeboard in Monks Hill.

“The community ward budgets put residents at the heart of decisions made in their local areas. They have been an excellent way for councillors to involve residents more in how council funding is spent in their neighbourhoods and the grants make a real difference in Croydon’s communities.

“If you run or know of a group that makes a difference in your community then please let your local councillor know how their community ward budget could help support it.”

Councillor David Wood, deputy cabinet member for safer Croydon and communities

To find out more about community ward budgets and how to apply for a share of funding visit https://www.croydon.gov.uk/community/advice/community-ward-budgets-0/community-ward-budgets

2019-08-08T17:10:29+01:00 August 8th, 2019|Recent news|