City voluntary groups to share £400k award

Community and voluntary organisations across a city have been awarded a share of £400,000 from the government Pride in Place Impact fund.

Newcastle City Council said the cash would make a visible difference to neighbourhoods, bring communities together, and create places residents can feel proud of.

Grants of between £10,700 and £30,000 have now been made to 20 groups, ranging from community centres and youth projects to health and wellbeing services and sports group.

Councillor leader Colin Ferguson said: "We are proud to be working with organisations that know their communities best and can deliver lasting benefits for local people."

One of those groups receiving funding is Shieldfield Art Works which has been awarded £14,900 to improve accessibility to the workshop and gallery.

Friends of Jesmond Library has secured £25,000 to help maintain and restore its volunteer-run Grade II listed building.

Others include Elswick community pool and leisure centre, West End Women and Girls Centre, and Disability North.

Ferguson said: "It was important to make sure Newcastle took advantage of this funding as we know just how important these organisations are to our city.

"This is vital funding that will allow community organisations to expand the support and opportunities they provide to our residents.

"From youth projects to community buildings, sports groups to neighbourhood libraries, these are organisations working tirelessly to improve where we call home."

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