Five organisations in the Southwest have been awarded community funding by Abri, which supports local projects to empower lives and create thriving communities. Abri allocates up to £90,000 annually through its community fund.
The fund opens for applications four times a year, offering up to £3,000 per project. The next application window runs from 01 October to 21 October, with priority given to projects focused on cost-of-living challenges.
Application forms and window dates are available on Abri’s website at https://www.abri.co.uk/services/enterprise-investment/community-funding.
The Conservation Volunteers, a Bristol-based charity, received £3,000 for their Lockleaze “Green Gym,” whereby volunteers participate in conservation activities that benefit the environment and improve their health. These weekly 3-hour sessions are open to all abilities, allowing volunteers to work at their own pace. Abri's funding will help train volunteers, enhancing their skills and employability, and provide opportunities to advance as Volunteer Officers (VOs). VOs commit to regular volunteering and receive additional training in leadership, first aid, and safeguarding, valuable for future conservation work.
Sonia Parsons, Senior Project Officer for The Conservation Volunteers, said: “We are delighted to continue working on the Lockleaze Green Gym project. Our research shows that this approach positively impacts volunteers' lives. Being outdoors, socializing, and achieving something tangible boosts well-being, and we encourage community members to get involved.”
For more information about The Conservation Volunteers and their Green Gym in Lockleaze, email sonia.parsons@tcv.org.uk or visit www.tcv.org.uk.
Octagon Theatre & Westlands Entertainment Venue also received £3,000 to introduce their ‘Accessible Ticket Scheme,’ offering subsidised tickets for low-income community members. Abri’s funding will allow the scheme to be applied to at least 16 productions throughout the year. Selected shows will span multiple genres, including pantomime, dance, opera, comedy, and children’s productions, with tickets available for £3 on a first-come, first-served basis.
Katherine Hoskins, Arts Engagement & Outreach Manager for the venue said: “To ensure that everyone has access to the events, shows and activities at The Octagon Theatre & Westlands Entertainment Venue, we are proud to introduce our Accessible Ticket Scheme offering £3 tickets to audience members who might not be able to afford to attend a performance otherwise. We are delighted to be able to make coming to the theatre more affordable and to share the magic and joy of live entertainment with as many people as possible.”
For more on the Accessible Ticket Scheme and how to sign up, visit westlandsyeovil.co.uk/participate/access-inclusion-schemes or call 01935 422884.
Rhode Lane Wanderers JFC, a community football team in Bridgwater, received £3,000 to revive their under-16s team on Hamp Estate. Any local boys or girls under 16 can join, and the funding will support the club’s operations, including providing kits, equipment, and covering insurance and venue hire costs.
The football club, originally founded in the 1990s, ended in 2019 but played a vital role in the Hamp community, fostering relationships with schools and promoting community spirit.
Ann-Marie Gould, Events & Community Development Officer at Bridgwater Town Council, said: “We identified a need to reduce anti-social behaviour in Hamp and improve young people’s well-being, and so we’re thrilled to be part of the team’s revival. The local community has been involved from the start and is very supportive.”
For more about Rhode Lane Wanderers JFC or to sign up your child, visit the club’s Facebook page.
Other successful applicants from this round of Abri’s community fund included:
- £2,330 for St Peter’s Community Centre in Westfield for summer children’s ‘stay and play’ events.
- £1,525 for Barwick & Stoford Community Committee’s D-Day Memorial Celebration event in June.
Cita Jagot, Abri’s Communities & Involvement Manager, said, “More organisations across Abri’s geography are being supported than ever before as part of Abri’s new regional approach to delivering services. By splitting its operating areas into three, Abri will ensure its colleagues are even more visible, accountable, and empowered to meet the specific needs of their customers and diverse communities.”
Applications for the community fund are reviewed by an Abri resident panel, composed of customers and community members. Lorraine Thompson, an Abri customer and panel member, said, “I’m really excited that we have the opportunity to support these three projects as they continue to grow and have such a positive impact on our communities in the Southwest of England. Each project is really responding to a local need.”