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Want to create a greener, more vibrant outdoor space? Groundwork manages a number of grant schemes, helping communities do just this, as Communications Ofcer Stacey Aplin explains


t Groundwork we know that funding for any extra resource that enables schools to enhance the


learning potential of their buildings and grounds is hugely welcome. ‘One of the most important things


to consider when offering grant funding opportunities to schools is that the application process is simple and easy,’ says Graham Duxbury, National CEO of Groundwork. ‘One resource that Groundwork


encourages applicants to read is our online Community Project Toolkit, which provides a wealth of advice, guidance and support for schools and groups wanting to create and sustain successful projects. Our national network of experienced local enablers also means we can help schools apply for funding, recruit volunteers and ensure their projects have maximum impact. It’s vital that school staff feel supported throughout the process so they have the condence and knowledge to submit a strong application.’


Bags of possibilities In October 2015 the Government introduced a law that insisted large businesses (retailers with over 250 employees) start charging 5p for all single-use carrier bags. While the news was met with some cynicism by a minority, the majority saw this as a positive change in the war against plastic pollution. And it worked – in July 2016 it was


reported that England’s plastic bag use had dropped 85% since the


30 AUTUMN 2017 FundEd


charge was introduced. Aside from the environmental successes that the 5p carrier bag charge has had in cutting the use of single-use plastic, many local communities have also benetted from the millions of pounds raised from the levy. Groundwork has administered


Tesco’s ‘Bags of Help’ scheme since the levy came into play, with local schools, colleges, community groups, charities and sports clubs invited to apply for grants towards projects that benet their community. At present, groups are awarded £1,000, £2,000 and £4,000 every two months across the UK. Since the scheme


launched in 2015, schools have been a major beneciary of Bags of Help funding and, to date, 1,280 school projects have together received funding to the tune of close to £8.7 million. Projects have ranged from school


projects that are based within two miles of a One Stop store. Since the scheme launched, 67 school projects have been awarded funding worth close to £96,000 in total. ‘Every day we receive applications


for projects from schools brimming with creative ideas about how to enhance the curriculum,’ says Samantha Cox, Programmes Manager at Groundwork. ‘The exibility of the funding programmes we run allows schools to consider capital improvements, new equipment and stafng resources to deliver their projects.


‘Since the scheme launched in 2015, schools have been a major beneciary of the Tesco Bags of Help funding – to date, 1,280 school projects have received funding to the tune of close to £8.7 million.’


‘We are always looking for


playground refurbishments, the development of outdoor classrooms, creating engaging and accessible learning environments for children with disabilities or learning barriers, and building and developing school gardens – with all projects giving children some enjoyable new learning experiences. Since June 2016, Groundwork has


also administered ‘Carriers for Causes’ grants from retailer One Stop’s carrier bag charge funds. Carriers for Causes currently awards grants of up to £2,000 for


applications for new and innovative projects that benet children and help to bring a new wave of exciting and interactive school projects that aid learning and help connect schools with the wider community.’


On track for funding The development of phase one of High Speed 2 (HS2) has also offered schools in areas disrupted by the project the opportunity to apply for funding. Since March 2017, Groundwork has been administering these grants and for the next 11 years, local communities that are demonstrably disrupted by the construction of phase one of HS2


A Tesco Bags of Help grant helped create a dedicated area for cycling and scootering


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