Stafford community to have say on spending good cause cash

Deputy Leader of the council and county councillor for the Stafford North ward, Robert Simpson, said that this was an exciting opportunity for people to make a personal contribution to improving where they live.

"From its launch in 2001, the Local Member Initiative Scheme has seen county councillors support over 3,000 community projects and allocate over £4 million, so we've made a big difference to a lot of people.

This year, as part deciding who receives a grant, we'll be asking every person in our wards to rate which projects should be given a slice of our £10,000 allocation.

So it's not just the county councillors making the decision - it's our residents.  This is real community empowerment which we know will help to generate civic pride and pull our communities together."

The community will be asked to vote on applications made in October during Local Democracy Week, but the councillors are urging community groups to apply now to take part in the scheme.

"Now's the time to apply if you're looking for money to help start or support your community project or initiative," continues Robert. "We've already had a good number of applications, but want everyone with an existing project or a plan for future initiative to put pen to paper now and not miss out on the chance to cash in for their community.

There are only a few other local authorities who are empowering their residents in this way, and I'm delighted that Staffordshire is at the head of pack."

The suggested amount of money community groups should apply for is from £100 to £1500.  More money may be applied for in exceptional circumstances after consultation with the relevant county councillor.

More information and application forms are available here.

The deadline for applications is Friday 22^nd August 2008.

Locations

You can apply for money under this scheme if their project is located in the following areas:

• Highfields
• Western Downs
• Manor
• Rowley
• Holmcroft
• Tillington
• Common
• Coton
• Littleworth
• Castle
• Forebridge
• Baswich
• Wildwood
• Queensville
• Hillcroft Park
• Rickerscote
• Silkmore