We have today launched a COVID-19 Community Action Fund to provide support to organisations working with communities, who are being impacted by coronavirus and the social and economic consequences of this outbreak.

Through the COVID-19 Community Action Fund, we will rapidly provide small amounts of grant funding to community-led schemes, which achieve the important things that can safely address some of the issues that are arising locally as a result of the outbreak.

Applications are encouraged from constituted and not-for-profit Voluntary Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector groups and organisations, or a combination of groups working together.

Organisations that; safely deliver essential goods and services (such as food and medicines) to those who are vulnerable; provides supporting for accessing online information and services; offers virtual support groups to help people stay connected and informed to maintain and support mental health and wellbeing, or runs transport related initiatives that support safe community responses are encouraged to apply. All applications under £500 will be considered.

Non-constituted groups without their own, separate bank account, small local businesses and individuals may apply, but they will need to do so with the support of an accountable constituted organisation acting on their behalf as the holder of the funding.

Cllr Christine Carter, Cabinet Member for Corporate and Community Services, Torbay Council, said “Whilst the Government, NHS and all local authorities are doing everything in their power to slow the spread of coronavirus, our Voluntary and Community Sector organisations and local organisations are also doing an absolutely fantastic job of safely helping those in our communities that our most vulnerable. We recognise how important it is that payments are made as quickly as possible, that’s why we will be aiming to make a decision on each application within 48 hours.”

For further information and to make your application visit our Community Action Fund page. 

If you require community support during the coronavirus pandemic visit our Support pages.