Councillors show their pride through local community funding
Community groups and local initiatives across Telford and Wrekin benefitted from £270,000 funding support in 2023/24, thanks to the Telford & Wrekin Council’s Councillors’ Pride Fund, which gives for Ward members the opportunity to provide tailored funding to support the needs of their local communities and help community organisations thrive.
In 2023/24, Telford and Wrekin’s 54 Ward Members were each given £5,000 to directly support improvements, projects or groups in their Ward areas, with all £270,000 being allocated by the end of the financial year.
In total, the Councillors’ Pride Fund supported 335 applications for funding during the year. Councillors are encouraged to seek match funding for their support wherever possible, and in 2023/24 attracted an additional £163,000 from supporting partners, equivalent to an extra 60p for each £1 spent through the Pride Fund.
At Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet meeting today (Thursday 5 December), Councillor Raj Mehta, Cabinet Member for Inclusion, Engagement, Equalities and Civic Pride, presented the Councillors’ Pride Fund Annual Report for 2023/24, which detailed how the fund had been used in local areas.
Councillor Mehta said:
“Every year, the Councillors’ Pride Fund provides a small pot of money to each Ward Member to support grass-roots initiatives in their local areas, often helping projects that would otherwise struggle to attract other grant funding.
“Our councillors are at the heart of their local communities, so are best placed to know what’s needed in their wards, therefore the Councillors’ Pride Fund means they can and are making a real difference at a very local level.”
“By also seeking match funding, Members have maximised the benefits to their local communities, attracting an extra 60p of support from partners such as Town and Parish Councils and through other grants, for every pound spent.
“Since we launched the Councillors’ Pride Fund back in 2011, local good causes have benefited from almost £2m across the borough.” (1)
The report shows how Ward Members used Councillors’ Pride funding in 2023/34 to align with the Council’s priorities, particularly focusing on community well-being, economic growth, neighbourhood improvements, and environmental sustainability.
A significant portion of the funding supported the Council priority "Every child, young person and adult lives well in their community," Projects included school enrichment support, youth activities like sports and arts, and support for older residents through social events and meals. Veterans were also supported through projects such as Veterans' Cafés and other community-building activities.
Support for residents during the cost-of-living crisis was another key focus. Grants facilitated warm spaces, food provision, and clothing assistance across various Wards. Defibrillators were installed in multiple locations to improve emergency preparedness, and CPR training was introduced for community members.
Recreational opportunities, such as family trips to seaside destinations, were funded to foster inclusivity and strengthen community ties. Events celebrating heritage and local culture also received funding, helping to bolster the local economy and promote social interaction.
Local improvements made up almost a quarter of applications, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring all neighbourhoods are a great place to live. Upgrades to play areas, installation of grit bins, and other neighbourhood improvement projects were supported. Community libraries were established to enhance access to learning resources, while initiatives like murals and wooden carvings added cultural value.
The protection of natural environments saw funding for wildlife habitats, tree planting, and climate-resilient infrastructure. Projects such as thermal imaging cameras for energy efficiency and flood mitigation measures addressed environmental and climatic challenges.
Lastly, Councillors’ Pride support emphasised safety and infrastructure development. Funding enabled the installation of CCTV cameras, road safety measures like speed mirrors and traffic calming devices, and additional streetlights in dark areas. Water safety improvements included lifebuoys and throwlines. Together, these initiatives demonstrate the Council’s community-focused and innovative approach and commitment to creating a better borough.
The current Councillors’ Pride Fund, for 2024/25 is open for applications via Ward Members until 1 February 2025, with each councillor again having up to £5,000 to allocate in their local areas.
ENDS
Notes to Editors
1) Since it was launched in 2011, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Councillors Pride Fund has allocated £1,998,000 in support for local good causes.