Community groups that could support refugees and local communities towards integration can apply for funding from a successful grant funding programme.
The scheme relaunched this week by the Refugee Resettlement Service is re-named the CommUnity Grants Scheme to put a greater emphasis on community cohesion.
Grants under £10,000 are available to groups, charities and other organisations that can contribute to the integration of people and families who are refugees, asylum seekers, or otherwise forcibly displaced, and who are rebuilding their lives in St Helens Borough.
The scheme will prioritise projects that can help promote English language learning, improve health and wellbeing, and celebrate cultural diversity and cohesion in our communities.
The grant scheme has previously helped such vital local organisations as Café Laziz (OLCOTWISH) and Our Warm Welcome, which are now well-established in the community.
Councillor Mancyia Uddin, St Helens Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Safer Communities, said:
“Our borough has provided a home for many people seeking safety for themselves and their families, but it is our communities that make resettlement possible. We have many incredible groups and volunteers doing great work in the community helping displaced people to find a safe and welcoming home.
“If your group or organisation is providing this kind of vital support to those in the greatest need or is able to do so, please get in touch – we’d love to support you!”
To enquire about CommUnity Grants Scheme funding, email Michael Melia, Refugee Resettlement Project Officer: michaelmelia@sthelens.gov.uk.