Grant boost for community groups

45 organisations have now received funding

Community grants have now been delivered by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council to organisations that were successful in their bids to this year’s scheme.

In round two of the council’s community development grant scheme, financed by the UK Shared Prosperity fund, just over £131,000 has been allocated to 45 groups in Tonbridge and Malling.

Grants of up to £5,000 were available to organisations that provide a service to residents or help to improve the economic, social or environmental wellbeing of the borough.

All 45 eligible bids received, now have their funding and are putting it to use. Examples of some of the organisations and projects that have benefitted from this round of funding include:

Borough Green Parish Council £3750             
Community bus for older residents.

Communigrow £5000              
Volunteering opportunities for those with physical, mental, or learning difficulties.

East Peckham Methodist Church £2500              
Social café area as part of church renovation.

Ightham and District Gardeners Club £500    
To support club with speakers and venue costs.

Malling District Scouts & Explorers £3750 (Pictured)     
Purchase of new tents.

Tonbridge Angels Football Club  £2500              
Free Saturday football sessions for children not able to afford membership.

West Kent Debt Advice £3750              
Support with debt and credit management in Snodland.

West Kent Mind  £5000 
Free fast track counselling for victims of domestic abuse.

Wouldham Parish Council £3000            
Set up of website and booklet to support local groups.

Wateringbury Surgery   £2401              
To fund tools and materials to create a garden for patients.

Councillor Des Keers, Cabinet Member for Community Services, said: ‘These grants are designed to help local groups build on the excellent work they are already doing to improve the lives of residents.  It has been great to see how these grants can ease the costs associated with running an organisation or service and I look forward to seeing further benefits to residents in the borough.’

A third round of community development grants will take place in March 2025.

Source: Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council