Local Fund Now Open for Community Projects in Barrow
Residents of Barrow now have the opportunity to apply for grant funding through the Barrow Helping Barrow Fund. This exciting new fund, created by local residents for local residents, aims to support community projects and help those in need.
A community panel consisting of over 20 volunteers from Barrow has been working diligently throughout July to decide how £85,000 of grant funding should be allocated. Their goal is to bring people together, strengthen communities, create opportunities for residents, and support community-led ideas that have a lasting impact.
Managed by Cumbria Community Foundation, the Barrow Social Impact Fund, provided by Team Barrow, has allowed residents to take the lead in shaping the participatory element of the fund for the second year in a row.
The community panel has chosen the name “Barrow Helping Barrow Fund” for this year’s fund and has outlined the following goals for the projects it will support:
– Bringing people together and reducing isolation by creating opportunities for people of different ages and backgrounds to connect
– Making better use of community spaces by increasing access to local venues, facilities, and green spaces, and promoting activities that strengthen community participation
– Providing opportunities for young people aged 14 to 18 through activities designed with their input to build skills, confidence, aspirations, and connections
– Building stronger communities through volunteering by creating opportunities for locals to contribute, develop new skills, and support community life
– Encouraging new ideas and community-led solutions that address local needs, support emerging groups, and provide sustainable, long-term benefits
– Supporting older people through practical assistance, social opportunities, and meaningful activities that complement existing services.
The community panel has also been involved in designing an accessible application process, including easy-read application forms and “meet the fund” sessions in Barrow and online to help potential applicants.
Annalee Holliday, Head of Grants Practice and Programmes at Cumbria Community Foundation, expressed her gratitude towards the community panel for their valuable input in shaping the fund and targeting support where it’s most needed. She encouraged interested applicants to attend one of the “meet the fund” events to get help with their applications from panel members who have helped design the fund.
Nat Wealleans-Turner, Community and Social Impact Lead for Team Barrow, also expressed his delight in supporting the Barrow Helping Barrow Fund for the second year in a row and involving local residents in decision-making. He thanked the volunteers for their dedication and commitment in creating a fund that reflects the community’s priorities and will have a positive impact on Barrow.
Members of the community panel shared their enjoyment and appreciation for the opportunity to shape the new fund and make decisions about local funding. One member mentioned, “I’m taking away the thought that there’s so much more I can do to help improve Barrow’s community,” while another added, “I have more to contribute than I thought. There are brilliant people in Barrow.”
For those seeking assistance with their applications, “meet the fund” events will take place on Monday 17 August at The Bridge in Barrow, Friday 4 September at The Bridge in Barrow, and Tuesday 15 September online. Attendance is optional but encouraged.
The deadline for applications is midday on Monday 21 September, and the community panel will meet in October to decide on grant awards. Projects must be delivered within the Barrow boundary and involve local people in their design. More information and the online application portal can be found at https://www.cumbriafoundation.org/fund/barrow-helping-barrow-fund/.
