Open Call: Winwick Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund (UK)

The Winwick Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund offers grants to support community projects in Winwick, Cold Ashby, West Haddon, and Guilsborough. Grants of up to £5,000 are available for charitable, educational, environmental, and community projects, including youth clubs, green spaces, and local heritage preservation. The fund aims to enhance the quality of life for local residents and is independently administered by Northamptonshire Community Foundation.

Overview of the Fund

The Winwick Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund has been established by Cubico Sustainable Investments to support community projects in the parishes of Winwick, Cold Ashby, West Haddon, and Guilsborough. This fund is designed to enhance the quality of life for residents by funding a wide variety of community-focused projects, including initiatives that support charitable, educational, and environmental goals.

The fund will remain available for the lifetime of the wind farm and is independently managed by the Northamptonshire Community Foundation. Grants are available to small, locally managed organizations or community groups, aiming to benefit local residents.

Funding Details

• Maximum Grant Amount: Up to £5,000 per project.

• Exceptional Circumstances: Larger grants may be considered if funding allows.

• Eligible Projects: Revenue and capital projects are eligible, including:

  • Training and volunteering schemes.

  • Development of green spaces like pocket parks.

  • Arts and preservation of local heritage.

  • Youth clubs and safety schemes.

Grants can be used for new initiatives, start-up costs for new groups or services, or to expand existing activities that already benefit the community.

Project Duration

• The fund remains open for the lifetime of the wind farm, providing long-term financial support.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply?

• Voluntary, community, or self-help groups based in and directly benefiting Winwick, Cold Ashby, West Haddon, or Guilsborough.

• Organizations must have a written constitution or set of rules.

• Applicant organizations should demonstrate active volunteer involvement beyond the management committee.

Exclusions

• Social enterprises with individuals who hold significant control (listed on Companies House) are generally excluded.

• Projects must be inclusive and should benefit all members of the community.

Safeguarding and Equalities

• Child Protection or Vulnerable People’s Policy is required to ensure the safety and wellbeing of young people or vulnerable individuals participating in the project.

• An equalities policy must also be in place.

Eligible Project Areas

• Community Amenities: Enhancing local facilities or creating new ones that benefit local residents.

• Youth Services: Funding projects that offer safe spaces or activities for young people.

• Environmental Initiatives: Including green spaces, parks, and activities that promote sustainability.

• Cultural and Educational Projects: Arts and heritage preservation, including training and education programs.

Application Process

1. Complete the Application: Applications should clearly describe how the project will benefit local residents of Winwick, Cold Ashby, West Haddon, or Guilsborough.

2. Provide Supporting Documents: Include the organization’s constitution, equalities policy, and safeguarding procedures.

3. Submit to Northamptonshire Community Foundation: All applications should be submitted to the Northamptonshire Community Foundation, who independently administers the fund.

Key Dates

• Grants are available on a rolling basis, but applicants should check with the fund administrator for any specific deadlines.

FAQs

1. Who is eligible to apply for the Winwick Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund?
Non-profit organizations, community groups, and self-help groups based in Winwick, Cold Ashby, West Haddon, or Guilsborough are eligible, provided they have a written constitution and demonstrate active volunteer involvement.

2. How much funding is available?
Grants of up to £5,000 are available. In exceptional cases, larger grants may be considered.

3. Can the funding be used for general operating costs?
Yes, the funding can be used for both revenue and capital projects, including start-up costs for new services or expansion of existing activities.

4. What is the deadline for applying?
The fund operates on a rolling basis, so applications can be submitted at any time. Applicants should check with the Northamptonshire Community Foundation for specific timelines.

5. What are the safeguarding requirements for applicants?
Applicants must have a Child Protection or Vulnerable People’s Policy to ensure the safety of participants, especially young people or vulnerable individuals.

6. Are social enterprises eligible to apply?
Social enterprises where an individual holds significant control (listed on Companies House) are generally excluded from applying.

Conclusion

The Winwick Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund is an excellent opportunity for community organizations in Winwick, Cold Ashby, West Haddon, and Guilsborough to receive financial support for projects that enhance local amenities, promote community well-being, and foster environmental sustainability. With grants up to £5,000, this fund provides a long-term solution for initiatives that improve the quality of life for residents.