The second round of funding for the Tesco Bags of Help scheme will open for applications on 18 April 2016 and close on 3rd June.
Bags of Help is administered by Groundwork and funded by Tesco customers from the proceeds of the 5p charge for plastic carrier bags.
The scheme is open to community groups across England, Wales and Scotland to apply for grants of £8,000, £10,000 and £12,000 to improve local green space.
Online applications will be accepted from a wide range of organisations including: voluntary/community organisations, registered charities, schools, health bodies, Parish/Town councils, social enterprises, Community Interest Companies, community councils, local authorities and housing organisations. Other not-for-profit organisations might also be eligible.
The scheme funds capital projects that provide community benefit and where there is no charge to access. Projects that will get the green light as a result of the funding will include:
• Green corridors – river and canals, cycle ways
• Parks, pocket parks and urban green spaces
• Formal and informal play areas
• Open access sports facilities within public parks and recreation grounds
• Informal outdoor recreation facilities; e.g. gym equipment, trim trails and woodland walks
• Nature reserves, community woodland, ponds and village greens
• Churchyards
• Seafront improvements
• Community allotments, community gardens, orchards and city farms
• Spaces in the grounds of hospices and day centres
• Allotments
• School grounds
• Community spaces on housing estates or residential areas
There is no match funding requirement to access this funding but the grant should be the majority of the funding required for the project. All projects will need to be completed within twelve months of receipt of the grant. Additionally, landowner’s permission is essential and some projects may need planning permission.
Tesco customers will be able to cast their vote on which shortlisted project in their area they would like to see receive the top grant from 1 October 2016.
To find out more go to: www.groundwork.org.uk/tescobagsofhelp<http://www.groundwork.org.uk/tescobagsofhelp>