Community groups tap into recovery fund after pandemic

St. Barnabas in Hattersley was the location for the latest round of applications for the Tameside Community Recovery Fund.

Groups and charitable organisations were invited to compete for a slice of a financial pot to help communities overcome issues caused by the pandemic.

This was the final round and held specifically for charities and community groups in the South of Tameside, with similar events already having taken place for the North, West and East of the borough.

The process has been administered by Tameside Council Community Safety (headed by Terry Finn) and Action Together (represented by Community Development Officer Jonathan King). 

Sixteen local groups and charities were invited to attend the event and pitch for funding of up to £2,000 from a £10,000 pot, which came from proceeds of crime seized by Greater Manchester Police. This was the first time this had happened since pre Covid times back in 2019.  

Those who gave two minute presentations were from very diverse projects from Hyde, Gee Cross, Dukinfield and Hollingworth. They ranged from garden projects to large community events, with projects for all ages and community cohesion. 

Several of those who made presentations mentioned the issues many faced as a result of the pandemic, with isolation and mental health being particular problems.

The Civic Mayor of Tameside Cllr Michael Glover and Mayoress Anne Gordon attended and presented the cheques to nine of the projects chosen for funding. 

The decision on successful applicants was made by all those who attended the event in an anonymous ballot after all the presentations had been heard. 

Those unsuccessful this time will be offered advice on other funding streams they may apply for. 

Terry Finn, main organiser, pointed out the benefits of the events, providing networking opportunities to all those who took part. 

A full list of the successful applicants and amounts they secured can be found on the Tameside Community Recovery Fund website - https://www.actiontogether.org.uk/tameside-community-recovery-fund-south

report by Andrew Richardson