Community groups working to improve the quality of life for Bolton's residents are being  offered a chance to get up to £25,000 to continue their good work.

A new round of Bolton’s fund, living healthier lives, has opened for voluntary and community groups giving them the chance to apply for grants up to £25,000 so residents can lead healthier lives.

The projects that receive funding will provide opportunities for communities to overcome social, health or emotional challenges and to cope with the current cost of living pressures.

The priority areas for the funding will be activities that will people’s physical health or emotional wellbeing or development, work and activities that benefit older adults, young children and their families, activities that reduce feelings of loneliness, isolation and stress in older people and groups and organisations that support households whose health and emotional wellbeing is being impacted by the rising cost of living.

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There is a total of £475,000 of funding available and it can be used for new projects or new activities.

Ten grants of up to £250 are also available specifically for projects led by young people aged 13 -21 who have an idea they think will create a positive change for people. 

Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, Cllr Mudasir Dean, said: “Our top priority as a council is always the health and wellbeing of Bolton residents of all ages.

“With the rising cost of living, the voluntary and community sector has a vital role to play in giving advice and support to anyone who may be struggling at this difficult time.

“We already have many groups doing outstanding work in this area, and I urge as many as possible to apply to this latest round of Bolton’s Fund.”

Dawn Yates-Obe, Chief Executive of Bolton CVS, said: “We are excited to be supporting this funding opportunity. 

“Bolton’s Fund Round 36 will enable community groups and charities in the borough to continue to provide incredible support and activities for the people of the borough during this challenging time.”

Bolton’s Fund is an investment programme for the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector in Bolton, bringing together funding from Bolton Council, NHS Greater Manchester, Bolton at Home and Bolton CVS.

Funding is awarded by an independent panel, with each round designed to address a specific need or priority for communities in Bolton.

Funding rounds for grants of up to £500 for projects that support community groups and the residents of Tonge with the Haulgh, and for projects that support residents of Bolton Community Homes properties are currently open for applications.

Groups can apply online, and the applications will close on Sunday, February 5.

Visit https://www.boltoncvs.org.uk/boltons-fund-0 to find out more.