Community First Neighbourhood Matched Fund

The Government had a pot of funding for community projects. They asked the Community Development Foundation to manage it.

There were four areas in Stoke on Trent with Community First funding. Each area had a panel of local people - residents and representatives. Each Panel put together a community plan. Each area had its own local priorities.

The funding was available from 2011 to Community groups could apply for between £250 and £2500 to their local panel. Every £1 provided in funding had to be matched by a similar amount of in-kind donations (this means donations of cash, services, free products or volunteer time).

Burslem North ward Anti-social behaviour and social isolation, by increasing the range of activities available at night. Improving the health of all inhabitants of the ward. Bringing different communities within the ward closer together, addressing community cohesion.

Burslem North and South wards £33,910

Burslem South ward 1. events that brings the community together – at little or no cost to those that come along. 2. events that promote Burslem, or one of the communities that makes up Burslem. 3. events that make good use of Burslem’s open spaces. 4. events organised by local people that benefit a range of people.

£33,910 Great Fenton ward

Increasing the amount of activities for the young people of Fenton, especially in the evening. Improving cross generational links by encouraging activities which bring old and young engaging together Cementing cohesion and developing civic pride across Fenton Encouraging projects which improve the quality of life for the older members of Fenton’s community

£50,856 Hanley West and Shelton ward

1 Reduce crime and anti-social behaviour 2 Improve the image, reputation and physical environment of the area. 3 Improve the well being and self esteem of local people by raising aspirations and educational attainment 4 Improve community cohesion and a sense of belonging including relationships between people from different groups 5 Promote local business and improve skills through training, volunteering and work experience