Funding is now available to help organisations work together to
address child poverty across Wales.
Applications are open for the Welsh Government's £1.5m Child
Poverty Innovation and Supporting Communities Grant, which funds
organisations to form and improve collaborative working
arrangements to address child poverty.
Previous funding is already making a difference in communities
where families now shape their own services. In Rhondda Cynon
Taf, the Trivallis housing association's 'Rise Strong' project
has worked directly with local families who know best what help
they need and how it should be delivered.
Cae Fardre residents, who previously had no community space, have
created a thriving hub where families now access practical
support including budget cooking classes and regular social
activities.
In Penrhys, the focus has been on rebuilding community spirit,
with families coming together to create art and learn media and
costume-making skills, staging a fashion show using recycled
materials. The grant has enabled children and community members
to enjoy events and activities that would not have happened
otherwise, paving the way for the revival of the Penrhys
Carnival.
Jen O'Hara Jakeway, Head of Community Involvement at
Trivallis, said; “The funding has helped families come
together to share ideas and find ways to build on their strengths
to make a difference in their own communities. Being alongside
them as they take the lead and drive that change has taught us so
much about the potential in our communities”
The Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, , said: "This funding
puts resources directly where they make the greatest difference
to families on lower incomes. We're determined to do all we can
to prevent people from going into poverty and help those who need
support the most.
"Since 2022, we've invested nearly £5bn in schemes which help
people access their entitlements and help put money back into
people's pockets by boosting incomes and strengthening financial
support. Our Child Poverty Strategy sets out actions to tackle
poverty, including delivering more community-based opportunities
for play, sports, youth activities and access to arts and culture
for children and families."
Public and third sector organisations can apply for up to £25,000
for community and local projects, or up to £125,000 for regional
initiatives spanning multiple local authorities.
Applications close on 13 April. For details on how to apply, go
to Child poverty innovation
and supporting communities grant | GOV.WALES.
