Bolton’s Fund is a voluntary sector grants programme delivered by Bolton Council, NHS Bolton Clinical Commissioning Group, Bolton at Home and Bolton CVS. It launched in November by the Conservative administration with VCSE groups of all sizes invited to submit bids for different rounds of funding, each targeted at addressing a key priority in the community.
But scheduled funding rounds were placed on temporary hold at the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. A one-off Covid-19 Resilience Fund was set up to support local good causes, with huge success as many voluntary groups were able to use funding to support their local communities.
The upcoming funding rounds are:
- September 2020: Digital Inclusion (grants up to £1,500 and up to £5,000)
- October 2020: Supporting Social Enterprise (grants £10,000-£25,000)
- November 2020: Health and Wellbeing (grants up to £1,500, up to £5,000 and £25,000+)
- November 2020: Children and Young People (grants £10,000-£25,000)
- January 2021: Climate Change (grants up to £1,500 and up to £5,000)
The final decision on awarding grants will be taken by an independent panel as the Conservative administration reformed the system to take politicians out of decision making, removing any bias our favouritism.
Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, Cllr Nadim Muslim, said:
“Delivering a fair and transparent grant system is one of the main goals of this council and our partners. Bolton’s Fund provides such a system, giving all groups an equal opportunity to access the funding they require to help those in most need.
“We’ve always been proud of Bolton’s voluntary sector, but the last few months have show beyond doubt what a vital service they provide to us all. I urge everyone to look at the bidding criteria and make sure you have plenty of time to submit a strong bid.
“We all look forward to seeing this money put to good use in our community.”
