New fund announced to support connected and resilient communities

The National Lottery Community Fund and IKEA UK have announced almost £1.5m of funding to community groups across the UK to enable people to invest in their local community.

The pilot partnership is supporting local communities with grants of up to £5,000 to build back better and differently as they recover from the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Places Called Home programme aims to inspire communities to take action around healthy and sustainable living, building on the success of communities coming together during the pandemic.

Projects range from supporting bereaved families in Northumberland to environmental arts workshops in Bristol and boxing classes helping mental and physical health in Bolton.

Emma Ackerman, funding strategy director at the National Lottery Community Fund, said: ‘As we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is clear that we can build on the energy and creativity we’ve seen to make stronger communities and a better everyday life. We’re delighted that together with IKEA and National Lottery players we have been able to support this across the UK with our pilot partnership and funding announced today.’

Hege Saebjornsen, partnership advisor at Ingka Group, added: ‘The COVID-19 outbreak has demonstrated how fragile the world is, reinforcing the need for collective resilience – for our neighbourhoods, our communities and our planet. Through this programme, we have an opportunity to make sustainable and healthy living accessible and affordable for everyone while also unleashing the skills, energy and enthusiasm of communities to take part in making a difference every day.’

In Northumberland, Nature’s Living Room CIC will work with bereaved families in the area providing eco-therapy and peer support.

Deni Riach, director of Nature’s Living Room CIC, said: ‘We’re so pleased with this new funding that will help us bring together bereaved families who have lost a family member or those who are coming to terms with family member who is terminally ill. Thanks to National Lottery players and IKEA we can give families the opportunity to meet people with similar experiences and support each other through their grief, while enjoying the positive effects of being in nature.’

In related news, views are being sought on the Scottish government’s draft plans to prevent food insecurity, supported by food bank operators including the Trussell Trust and Independent Food Aid Network.

Photo by Helena Lopes