Most vulnerable helped during Covid-19

160 groups in Leicestershire have received help from the Communities Fund.

Voluntary groups have been praised for their response to a scheme aiming to support the most vulnerable across Leicestershire during COVID-19. 

The Communities Fund was launched so that organisations were able to continue to carry out vital work across the county, despite the impact coronavirus is having on their finances.

It saw 245 community and voluntary groups apply for a slice of a £1.5m pot – with the amount applied for exceeding £3m.

The third, and final, round of the fund has seen £486,000 awarded to 62 groups.

Leader of the county council - Nick Rushton said: “I’m happy to announce that we’ve awarded all of the £1.5m fund to 160 groups. It’s great to see that groups are doing all they can to keep communities thriving during these challenging times and I’m proud that we’ve been a part of it.

“It’s never been more important for communities to band together and support each other. These awards will help groups to continue their crucial work and step up activities to support vulnerable people and those isolating.

“This fund enables people to stay safe by staying at home and ultimately, saves lives. I’d like to thank our volunteers and community groups for their fantastic work and for keeping the community spirit going.
 
Groups receiving the funds to support vulnerable and isolated people operate in the following areas:

Blaby (three groups) - £12,537
Charnwood (21 groups) - £206,344
Harborough (14 groups) - £110,613
Hinckley & Bosworth (10 groups) £121,662
Leicester & Leicestershire (eight groups) - £42,844
Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (11 groups) - £85,671
Leicestershire (55 groups) - £543,953
Leicestershire & Rutland (two groups) - £33,636
Melton (15 groups) - £112,628
North West Leicestershire (16 groups) - £167,311
Oadby & Wigston (four groups) - £41,938