Manchester's Your Neighbourhood Fund Boosted

0:00On March 27th, Manchester's Community Funding Program has a fresh look and bigger budget. Now called the Year Neighborhood Fund, it offers 30,000 pounds per ward up from 20,000 for a total of nearly 1 million pounds across the city. Applications are open to local residents with ideas to improve their areas. The fund supports a range of projects from cleaning up green spaces and climate action like bike programs and recycling drives to community events, and starting new groups. It backs everything that brings neighbors together, celebrates cultures or tackles local priorities outlined in each ward's plan. For over two decades, this scheme has helped thousands of groups secure millions in funding to build stronger communities. Small startups and established teams alike have turned ideas into real change, by enhancing parks or sharing skills through workshops. Hignaz Khan from Cheatham Hill, whose Biket Walked Project teaches cycling to women and girls facing cultural barriers, promoting active travel.

1:02In North Manchester, or Michael Pollard's Didsbury Pride, which hosts inclusive events with music and markets to welcome the LGBTQ plus community and beyond. Groups like Friends of Plathfield Park have also used the money for murals highlighting local history. With this revamp, more residents can tap into support for grassroots efforts. Check the Manchester City website or email for details on applying.