Dover District Neighbourhood Forums Grant Awards

Kent County Council and Dover District Council are spreading a little Christmas cheer to local community groups following approval of funding for 35 community projects across the district, as recommended by local residents during the year.

Cabinets have approved Small Community Capital Projects grant funding totalling £61,400, following recommendations made by local residents at special events held at Dover District Neighbourhood Forum meetings during September and October.

Local voluntary and community organisations were invited to apply to the Dover District Neighbourhood Forums for grants of up to £2,500 for capital projects that could show real benefit to the community. The Forums piloted Participatory Budgeting, an innovative way of allocating funding that directly involved local people in recommending how the Small Community Capital Projects grant fund was awarded in their area. The Neighbourhood Forums held special "You decide" events where local groups gave three-minute presentations on their project, and residents voted electronically on how they scored each one. The top scoring projects were recommended for funding, subject to approval by KCC and DDC Cabinets.

Funding went to a wide variety of projects including upgrading and renovating a range of community facilities, providing replacement fencing, sports equipment, workshop equipment, new public seating, notice boards, a portable generator and security lighting.

KCC manages the Small Community Capital Projects grant fund for the Dover District Neighbourhood Forums. For more information, contact Anne Charman, KCC Community Engagement Manager on 01622 696389.