Would you like to start an outreach programme to young families in your parish, or perhaps build upon existing work with pre-schoolers and their families?
The Norfolk Early Childhood Community Fund will hand out grants of up to £2,500 to projects that will support children aged 0-5 to achieve their developmental milestones and ensure children and their parents or carers aren’t lonely or isolated.
Groups might include music, creative, arts or physical play to encourage parents/carers to play alongside their child and give opportunities to make new friends close to home.
Up to £250,000 is available annually to help new groups set up or existing groups to expand. The money is being made available as part of Norfolk County Council’s Early Childhood and Family service which launched last month.
We can also provide advice and guidance on how to set up a new group, what things they need to consider and what support is available.
Cllr John Fisher, cabinet member for children’s services at Norfolk County Council, said:
“We need to support those who dedicate their time, effort and passion into putting on groups and activities for our youngest residents and their parents and carers. This funding will equip the right people with the resources they need to either continue the good work they are already doing or assist them in setting up something new.”
The fund is available to existing community organisations who provide activities for 0-5 year olds such as parent and toddler groups. People who are also thinking of setting up a new baby or pre-schooler activity in their area are also invited to apply for support.
The money can go towards new equipment, training, or set-up costs such as public liability insurance or promotional materials.
A grants panel made up of parents and local partners including Norfolk County Council, district councils, and Action for Children will decide which applications will be granted funding. The first panel will meet on 27 November to consider applications. Deadline for November applications is Wednesday 20 November. More opportunities to apply will follow.
Click the button on this page to access the online application process or email cs-0-5communityoffer@norfolkgov.uk and request an application form.
