*New Grant Fund* – Small Grants for Unpaid Carer Groups in Birmingham
Forward Carers is excited to announce the launch of a new Grant Fund – Small Grants for Unpaid Carer Groups in Birmingham! And, we’ve partnered with the Neighbourhood Network Schemes (NNS) to reach Carer groups across the city.
What is the Grant Fund?
Managed by Forward Carers and funded by Birmingham City Council, Birmingham Children’s Trust, and Birmingham and Solihull ICB, as part of Birmingham Carers Hub, this grant fund empowers unpaid Carer groups to organise activities that promote wellbeing and social connections. We’re committed to supporting Carers across Birmingham, and our partnership with the NNS schemes enhances our ability to reach Carers from all corners of the city.
What is the NNS?
The Neighbourhood Network Schemes (NNS) are funded by Adult Social Care, Birmingham City Council to develop the support people need to lead happy, healthy, independent lives in their own homes and communities. There is a Neighbourhood Network in each of Birmingham’s 10 constituencies, most of which are run by a range of voluntary and community sector organisations.
Each NNS works with community groups, organisations and local services to develop activities and support adults over 18 years in need to lead happy, healthy and independent lives.
Who Can Apply and What For?
If you’re an unpaid Carer in Birmingham, aged 18 or older, and registered with Birmingham Carers Hub, you’re eligible to apply. You can apply as part of an existing Carers group or gather at least three other unpaid Carers and apply for funding ranging from £50 to £500 for group activities. Your planned activities should positively impact Carer wellbeing and meet at least two of the outlined criteria, including providing fun and social activities, responding to local needs, or offering opportunities for Carers from LGBTQI+ backgrounds.
Application Information
Head over to our online application portal and register for an account. Before diving in, make sure you have all the necessary details about your planned activities, a breakdown of costs, and your bank account information. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by your local Neighbourhood Network Scheme, who will assess its eligibility and feasibility.
What Happens Next?
If your application is successful, you’ll receive the funds within 10 working days of being notified and will be required to sign a short agreement confirming the intended use of funds. At the end of your funding period, you’ll provide a brief report on how the funds were used and how the group’s activities made a positive difference for the Carers in your group.
Where to Get Help
Need assistance with your application? Your local Neighbourhood Network Scheme is here to support you. Find their contact details here. For any additional questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to Anna Lockley-Scott at Forward Carers via email at anna.lockleyscott@forwardcarers.org.uk
How to Apply
Go to https://forward1.grantplatform.com/ to register on the site and start your application. Before you begin, make sure you read all the information to give you the best chance of success.
Good Luck! We wish you the best of luck in your application!
