PHA small grants to improve health and social wellbeing: now open - southern area

Community and voluntary sector organisations in the Southern area are invited to apply for Public Health Agency (PHA)/Investing for Health small grants to improve health and social wellbeing and reduce inequalities in health. The closing date for the scheme is 7 October 2011.

Two small grants are available. The first, up to £1,000, is for work in:

• giving every child/young person the best start in life – eg supporting parenting initiatives, promoting and supporting breastfeeding;
• ensuring a decent standard of living for all – eg addressing food or fuel poverty and maximising income initiatives;
• building sustainable communities – eg community allotments, community gardens, neighbourhood improvement projects;
• making healthier choices easier – eg promotion of healthy eating and nutrition, physical activity, obesity prevention, stop smoking initiatives, emotional health and wellbeing initiatives.

The second grant, between £2,000 and £5,000, is focused on building sustainable communities through the creation and development of community allotments or community gardens.

Gerry Bleakney, PHA Head of Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement (Southern area), said: “The Public Health Agency is committed, through this year’s small grants scheme, to continue supporting the work of voluntary and community organisations in improving health and wellbeing. Over 40 groups received funding last year and delivered a range of projects such as dance, men’s health, healthy eating and dental health. All age groups were targeted, including men in their 70s learning to swim.

“The funding to develop or sustain community allotments and gardens has proved to be a huge success among local communities, with people enthusiastic to get involved. The allotments/gardens have promoted working across age groups, with the older generation passing on their skills and knowledge.

“The PHA is delighted to be able to offer this funding for community and voluntary organisations. This time around, we are keen to support all kinds of physical activity, along with cookery, nutrition and healthy eating, so we look forward to receiving a range of applications that address health inequalities and promote health and wellbeing within local communities.”

For further information or application forms/guidance notes, which advise those wishing to apply for funding of the relevant criteria and conditions, contact Joan Porter or Alice Grey on 028 3741 4640/4557. Alternatively, you can email:  alice.grey@hscni.net or joan.porter@hscni.net

Applicants must be from Armagh, Banbridge, Craigavon, Dungannon and South Tyrone or Newry and Mourne council areas and can only apply for one of the small grants. Projects must be completed by 31 March 2012. The closing date for applications is Friday 7 October 2011 at 4pm.