A fund which enables Derbyshire County councillors to support their local community is to be doubled to help tackle the rising cost of living.
All 64 councillors at Derbyshire County Council receive funding through the members’ Community Leadership Scheme to give to local communities and organisations.
From the 1st October, the amount they each receive to help their neighbourhoods will double from £3,860 to £7,720.
Announcing the increase, Council Leader Councillor Barry Lewis said: “We are very aware of the pressures that people in our communities are facing with the cost of living.
“It is important we provide support where it is most needed so on top of a range of practical and financial support we already offer I’m pleased to announce this increase in the members' Community Leadership Scheme.
“It means we can provide even more vital funding to communities which is targeted to where it is needed most by local councillors who have a close and deep understanding of the people and places they represent.”
Groups seeking funding should contact their local county councillor explaining the nature of their project, activity or event, the amount needed, what other funding may be available and how it will benefit the community.
It is for the local county councillor to recommend which projects should be supported under the scheme.
Councillor Lewis added: “In the past the members’ Community Leadership Scheme has been used to provide vital funding to initiatives delivered by community, voluntary and youth groups.
“I know that local organisations will be keen to put more support in place for people over the coming winter. Details of the fund are on our website and those seeking funding can approach their local county councillor.
“We are also looking at other ways we can support residents throughout the coming colder months by working with districts, boroughs, parish and town councils and by supporting voluntary groups. We are even looking at our own building assets to see where these might be appropriately used if needed."
To find out more and to check the name of the local county councillor in their area, people should go to www.derbyshire.gov.uk/communityleadershipscheme
During the 2021/22 financial year, a total of 500 applications were received and approved which were aimed at supporting local organisations and activities through the pandemic.
The increase means there is now almost £500,000 available as part of the members’ Community Leadership Scheme.