Bath & North East Somerset Council is opening the fourth round of the Ukraine Support Fund totalling £20,000, to help Ukrainian guests connect with their local communities and to promote their wellbeing, independence and skills.
The money allocated by central government could be used by local organisations to provide a range of services for Ukrainian groups, however the council is particularly welcoming applications to provide support in the following areas:
- English Language development
- Health and wellbeing
- Integration into local communities
The funding has previously supported organisations including Bath City Football Club, which provided the opportunity for refugees to engage in community activities and the chance to attend Bath City FC, and Somer Valley FM which launched a new Ukraine radio show.
Applications for the fourth round of funding open from April 15. Bids are invited from charities, volunteer, and community groups to benefit the groups of refugees they are supporting.
Organisations can apply for up to £2,500 for a one-off event, or up to £2,500 to establish new services or extend an existing one. Applications can be made on the council website until June 20.
The fund has been set up primarily to support people from Ukraine, but the projects could be widened to include refugees from other countries.
Councillor Kevin Guy, council Leader, said: “Many community groups and charities across Bath and North East Somerset are actively helping Ukrainian guests to rebuild their lives and gain independence. We are encouraging local organisations, especially those with a deep understanding of the needs of the Ukrainian guests they assist, to apply for the fund. This is particularly important in areas such as English language development and promoting health and wellbeing. Ultimately, these grants will enable individuals to flourish in their new communities.”
All applications must:
- benefit a group of people, not an individual person.
- be a charity, voluntary or community organisation that operates for the benefit of the local community and is not for profit.
- have a constitution and valid bank account or a lead organisation, with a constitution and valid bank account.
- show at least one of the following ways it will support Ukrainian Refugees: promote health and wellbeing, promote independence, improve English Language skills, assist with employment skills, help integration into local communities.
Applications will be welcomed from organisations whose work combines the support of Ukrainians alongside other displaced communities.
Anyone needing help to apply online can email H4U@bathnes.gov.uk.