Up and down the country, thousands of communities are taking action - from regulars running their local pub and protecting other assets such as the local pier, to plans for new development, the creation of new jobs and apprenticeships and services.
The following support programmes are currently available and open to applications:
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Community economic development – Co-operatives UK will support 50 communities to develop economic plans to address local economic priorities like job creation and enterprise. Closing date for applications 8 May 2015.
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Community ownership and management of assets – Locality will support 50 local authority/community partnerships to support the transfer of multiple or complex publicly owned assets into community ownership. Applications close when programme is full.
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First steps and our place – Locality will support 115 more neighbourhoods to use the Our Place approach, enabling councils and other public sector providers, voluntary and community groups, local businesses and the community to work together to tackle important local issues from job creation to health priorities and 115 communities will receive support from the Community Development Foundation to take the first steps in identifying important local issues and developing Community Action Plans. Closing date for applications is 8 May 2015 for First Steps and 15 May 2015 for Our Place.
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Neighbourhood planning and the Community Right to build – Locality will give grants and technical support to communities to shape new development in their area through a neighbourhood plan or neighbourhood development order, and to gain planning permission for new community led buildings. No closing date for applications.
There is also an advice service and network - Locality and the Community Development Foundation are providing communities with the opportunity to network and learn from each other through the new My Community Network. They provide a phone and online advice service that gives access to tailored advice to help communities use the range of community rights and other neighbourhood approaches that are available