Platinum Jubilee Village Halls Fund, if at first you don't succeed........

A West Norfolk Village Hall had made a successful stage 1 application and were referred to us for support with their stage 2.  After sending an email of introduction, we arranged an online meeting to go through their first draft of their stage 2 application. 

The Committee members were new to funding applications but had made a very good first attempt. We discussed ways they could demonstrate how the Hall improvements benefitted their community, and how to demonstrate that the views of the community and regular hirers had influenced their plans.  The group were keen to hear constructive feedback and valued the input of our Development Team as it provided them with a greater understanding of what a good application should look like.  

On working on the final draft, they recognised that they were not able to proceed any further as they had not secured sufficient funding from other sources.  This left the group feeling “deflated.”  However, we were able to offer them a funding search, and continued support with other applications.  

Funding and Development Manager, Clare, said “Although it was really frustrating for the group that they were not in a position to continue with the Stage 2 application, there were some definite positives they could take away.  They had made a really good effort with their first application.  They have found out that there is support and guidance available to them to help them develop their funding capacity.  And most of all, they have learnt an awful lot about what preparation work they should put into a project of this size.” 

Ultimately, they are working to secure between £82,000 - £110,000 to improve their Hall.  A key focus is to make improvements that increase the energy efficiency and carbon footprint of the Hall. 

But that’s not the end of the story! 

Just because the Hall couldn’t move forward with this application didn’t mean that we couldn’t help them. Clare then carried out a funding search and identified eight potential funders for the Committee to approach. The group took their time to write an application. We then provided them with further support by reviewing it and gave feedback about areas to highlight.  

If you need support, then these are just some of the things we can help you with? 

Our Community Development Team can assist with funding related queries, including: 

• Carrying out funding searches. 
• Proofreading applications 
• With training, factsheets, and advice on practical aspects of funding 
• Guidance around developing a funding strategy 
• Support with building your project, carrying out engagement, or reviewing and reporting your successes in order to provide evidence for your bids.  

Call us on 01362 698216 or email us at office@communityactionnorfolk.org.uk and find out more about how we can help you!