Wokingham

For one year only, a new package of grants worth £48,000 is on offer to sports clubs across the Wokingham district. Cash is up for grabs under Wokingham District Council’s grant assistance scheme and clubs and organisations have this one and only opportunity to bid for up to £2,000.

The Wokingham council is reminding sporting clubs it is offering a grant assistance scheme and the money can be used for new or additional projects or anything that improves a current sporting programme such as training for sports coaches, recruiting volunteers, or purchasing equipment.

The grant assistance scheme aims to encourage greater access and participation in sporting activities, increase the skill and creativity of local sportsmen and women, encourage talent and raise standards in the sporting field. By improving sporting facilities, the council hopes to improve the quality of life and well-being of all those taking part in activities.

Executive member for community development Wokingham Cllr Dianne King said: “The district council recognises the importance many of our local voluntary and community sector groups play in our community. They provide a valuable service, often complementing services provided by the council and share the same community ambitions as we do. We are keen for established sports clubs to spread their knowledge and skills across the district.

“There are many sports clubs and organisations providing activities for people of all ages and this grant assistance scheme very much intends to support the development of clubs like them, many of which are run by dedicated volunteers.”

Bids will be welcomed from Wokingham not-for-profit sports clubs, who have constitutions and full accounts, from across the district and must be submitted to the district council by February 28. All projects must benefit the residents of the Wokingham district. Local clubs have already been sent copies of the application form and criteria.

Decisions will be reported to sporting clubs by March 23,and if successful, they will receive their grant at the beginning of the next financial year.

Guidance explaining the application process and the criteria that groups must meet to qualify for a grant as well as application forms are available on the council’s website (www.wokingham.gov.uk - leisure pages) or from Beverley Thompson, sports development manager, on (0118) 974 6254.

Wokingham District Council