The Localities Fund is a way of supporting community engagement and initiatives in each ward.
Amount available
After the pilot in 2005-6, the Localities Fund was doubled from £5,000 to £10,000.
In 2008-09, wards can also bid for the Mayor's Fund.
What to spend it on
Local councillors gather views from residents on how the money should be spent.
They collect this information using several methods including the local assemblies, public meetings, surgeries and contact with local community groups and individuals.
Purpose of the Localities Fund
The Localities Fund is made available to each ward for the purpose of:
- engaging local residents to improve their ward through the assembly process and other methods
- action or activities which directly benefit the local neighbourhood
- action or activities that will make a visible difference
- physical, sustainable improvement(s) to the neighbourhood
- one off costs for staff who will deliver the improvement, such as artists (funding cannot be used to employ staff)
- improvements that can be delivered by 31 March 2009
- adding to funding that has already been identified for a particular activity.
Past projects
The money has been used to support a wide range of activities, including:
- environmental improvements such as hanging baskets and benches
- activities for young people
- activities for older people
- recruiting and training volunteers
- community events.
Other possibilities
There are many other activities that could be funded by the Localities Fund.
These possibilities include:
- area clean ups - residents spend a day tidying up their local area and establish environmental 'neighbourhood watch' groups
- promoting recycling locally either through events or targeted publicity
- small art or sculptural commissions in which an artist works with local residents
- intergenerational activities in which primary schools explore local heritage
- promoting good health by organising activities that encourage healthy eating and exercise.