The council has made up to £1million available to individuals, charities, businesses, community or residents’ groups as well as social enterprises and Community Interest Companies. The Community Connections Fund offers smaller grants of up to £10,000 as well as larger funding pots of up to £200,000.
The fund uses money raised through financial contributions under the Neighbourhood Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) that operates similar to a tax paid by property developers as part of the planning process and is designed to make sure the benefits of investment in the borough is shared by everyone.
Deputy Leader Cllr Danny Adilypour, cabinet member for Housing, Investment and New Homes, said: “I am delighted that the second round of the Community Connections Fund is now open for applications. We want to see ideas that address issues facing communities, support people to lead healthier and happier lives, as well as helping organisations expand their existing good work.
“While Lambeth is fortunate to be able to attract exciting new developments across the borough, they must be able to live alongside our existing communities. So, when a developer wishes to build in the borough they must make a financial contribution.
“This Developer Tax means money can be invested into the borough to improve amenities, create new public spaces or generally enhance the public realm so everyone benefits. This fund harnesses that investment and gives local people a say in how it can be spent.”
The first round of the Community Connections Fund supported 13 Lambeth organisations a total of around £800,000.
Recipients included Oasis Children’s Venture Oasis Children’s Venture to create safe, outdoor space for children of all abilities and the Stockwell-based Root n Branch, which is working with residents to be more sustainable.
Funding was also awarded to The Old Vic Theatre Trust to improve access to the arts for under-represented groups and people from all backgrounds and develop new skills.
The application process has been adapted for the second round of applications to make it more inclusive and accessible.
The council has produced a new guidance document and will offer in– person and online events and one-on-one information sessions for the public to help guide them through the application process. In person events take place on July 23 and July 30.
Lambeth Council has also introduced Development Grants to provide grants of up to £10,000 to build capacity for organisations, while the Project Grants between £10,000 and £200,000 are also available to apply for.
Cllr Adilypour added: “The Community Connections Fund shows what is possible when we harness the enthusiasm for investment into Lambeth and ensure the economic benefits are felt by the communities who help make the borough so unique.”
For more information visit the Community Connections Fund website.
