The first three recipients have been awarded grants from the Mayor’s fund
Grants from Luke Campbell‘s Community Fund have begun to reach recipients. The Mayor of Hull and East Yorkshire has delivered cheques to three local projects as his scheme gets underway.
In August, Mr Campbell took to social media to announce a new £1 million Community Fund. He told residents: “Please tell me where you want to see this money being spent. It’s all down to you.”
The scheme gives residents the chance to submit ideas for how the money should be spent by visiting www.lukeasksyou.com. The Mayor added: “I’ve always said during my campaign that decisions are made for the people of this region but never with them. Let’s change it together.”
The Mayor did receive criticism for the way the scheme was announced via his own social media before having gone through the Combined Authority’s own processes. A Lib Dem councillor on East Riding Council, Cllr Tom Astell at the time claimed the fund “doesn’t exist,” and added “it’s not even clear if the Combined Authority actually has the ability or monies available for such a fund.”
After going through the Combined Authority’s process, and having been discussed at scrutiny and executive board meetings, the fruits of the fund have begun to materialise with three grants awarded. The initial grants have gone to:
- Coniston Village Hall, £5,000, which will use its grant to upgrade kitchen facilities and create an inviting space for events and activities that unite local residents.
- Rewilding Youth CIC, £10,000, which will deliver programmes connecting young people with nature, promoting wellbeing and resilience while learning new skills.
- Ladled with Love, £5,000, which will continue to provide nutritious meals and vital support to residents facing hardship. The grant will cover its running costs for an entire year.
Mr Campbell has said: “The Community Fund is all about making a difference for people in Hull and East Yorkshire. I want to build strong communities that improve people’s health, wellbeing and resilience. These projects already have such a positive impact, and I can’t wait to see the difference this funding will make.”
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