Community grants up for grabs in East Dunbartonshire for disco divas and other groups

From dramatic arts for the young to ‘Disco Lunches’ for the elderly, the funding is supporting a range of initiatives at the heart of local towns and villages with the latest round accepting applications from July 1 to noon on Friday, July 26.

Organisations can apply for either a grant of up to £5000 or up to £10,000. The maximum, over the course of a year, a group can ask for is £15,000.

The online form, guidance and eligibility criteria can be found here

To apply, groups must have a constitution and a bank account, as well as not being profit-making and aim to bring benefits to the residents of East Dunbartonshire.

Funding can be sought for start-up costs, special projects, equipment and salaries.

Recent recipients included Halo Arts, providing sessions and opportunities for those aged between five and 25, and Weekday WOW Factor – offering ‘Disco Lunches’ and more for people aged over 66.

Ann Davie, chief executive of East Dunbartonshire Council, said: "The latest round of the Community Grants Scheme is open between July 1 and 26 – providing funding directly to local organisations carrying out great work which benefits people of all ages and abilities.

“We’re here to help support groups making a positive difference in our communities – increasing inclusion, participation and wellbeing. Visit the website or get in touch to find out more.”

If any individual or group is unfamiliar with the application process and needs assistance, the Council’s Community Planning team can be contacted by emailing [email protected] or calling 0300 123 4510.

Applications are assessed by the grants advisory committee, which makes recommendations for awards to the Community Planning Partnership (CPP) Board. The board is expected to next meet around the end of September, after which applicants will be informed if they have been successful.

The CPP includes representatives of the Council, the Health and Social Care Partnership, Police Scotland, East Dunbartonshire Voluntary Action, the Leisure and Culture Trust, and other organisations providing public services locally.