Over £600k available for South Oxfordshire community groups

South Oxfordshire District Council has opened a new round of its Revenue Grant Scheme, which aims to help organisations build and support thriving communities.

The scheme offers in principle funding for two years and has a provisional budget of £667,992, subject to annual approval by the council.

Organisations can apply for a minimum grant of £10,000 and a maximum of £125,000 per annum over the two-year period.

The closing date for applications is midday on November 1.

Last year, 21 organisations benefited from grants, including Didcot Train and River Thame Conservation Trust.

Ben Drabble, from Didcot Train, which works with young people to build their confidence and provide them with opportunities. said: "Thanks to the grant, we can continue to meet the needs of young people in our community.

"This funding allows us to provide a safe, supportive environment where young people can build confidence, foster positive relationships, and make informed choices."

Chelsea Hothem, from River Thame Conservation Trust, added: "Funding is allowing us to continue to engage a vibrant community of volunteers through activities like water quality monitoring, habitat improvement and invasive species removal.

River Thame Conservation Trust (Image: South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils)

"This extra funding allows us to train, encourage and support the fantastic people who generously donate their time to work towards a healthy river catchment with clean water and thriving wildlife, valued and enjoyed by local people."

As well as covering operational costs, the funding can be used to help voluntary sector organisations become more financially sustainable.

Organisations could use it to support training staff in new skills or to invest in new income streams to help diversify their fundraising.

Applicants must be able to demonstrate their services or activities meet a need of South Oxfordshire's residents.

It must also contribute towards at least one of the council’s Corporate Plan priorities, which includes action on climate change and nature recovery and developing homes and infrastructure.

Councillor Georgina Heritage, cabinet member for communities at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: "The revenue grant is a helping hand to local organisations, allowing them to continue their vital work supporting our communities.

"It’s inspiring to see how the grant is impacting the lives of young people and contributing to our drive to help sustain our natural environment.

“By helping organisations cover fundamental operational costs, they are able to focus on those that need their support and carry out the important day to day work that makes such a difference in our local community.”