District Council supports local community groups with grant scheme

Groups that received funding included a Community Fishing Project called Mending Lines, which encourages people of all ages, but particularly young people, to get outside with nature and take up fishing, with a focus on community and mental health, this small local group is transforming lives. The group works with the police and safeguarding team alongside local schools, young people who are homeschooled, adults and people with mental health conditions to help tackle anti-social behaviour and improve health and wellbeing. The funding received covers expenses for the continued running of the group, including the purchasing of fishing equipment and permits.

The Urban Worm CIC received funding, allowing it to offer three days of wormery workshops over the 2025 Easter half term at three sites in the district – Sconce and Devon Park, Vicar Water Country Park and Ollerton. Funding comes after the successful workshops they held in the district earlier this year. Now, a total of 135 residents will be able to learn about the importance of earthworms and make their own mini worm farm to take home as a solution for managing their food waste – meanwhile helping to improve the natural environment, encourage wildlife and clean waterways. Information about how to sign up for workshops will be available nearer the time. You can find out more about The Urban Worm on their website: https://theurbanworm.co.uk/

Funding for materials to help groups run more smoothly and cost effectively or to improve the offering for its users is also a popular request through the scheme. Winthorpe Allotment Association received funding for materials to build a community shelter to keep surplus grown produce dry which can then be donated through the crop drop scheme to local food banks. The shelter will also be used for growers to meet in, keep dry and be able to get a hot drink. Egmanton Village Hall received funding to purchase three new external doors to make the hall, which is a focus point for Egmanton’s villagers, more energy efficient and comfortable for those using it.

Round Two of Newark and Sherwood District Council’s Community Grant Scheme will be open for applications from Friday 27 September. More information is available on the District Council’s website: https://www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/communityfunding/

Councillor Paul Taylor, Portfolio Holder for Public Protection and Community Relations at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “The applications received for the first round of funding showcased some of the truly transformative projects happening across our district and we are delighted to help these groups and charities continue to reach more residents, improving the lives of everyone who attends.

“The people who run these groups are dedicated and passionate and that has been demonstrated in abundance when I’ve gone to meet them to present their funding. We are launching our next round of support very soon, so please keep your eye out on our channels for more information.”