New £2m fund unveiled to tackle Luton’s ‘biggest challenges’
A new £2 million fund has been announced by Luton Rising to help the town make progress toward its 2040 vision.
Luton Borough Council aims to transform the town into a healthy, fair and sustainable place, where ‘nobody lives in poverty and everyone has a good quality of life’.
Luton Rising, the council company which owns the airport, is offering £2 million in grants for charities and voluntary organisations to make long-term change in communities across the town.
The fund will support partnerships for two years, and is focussing on increasing aspirations and employability for young people; helping people to live healthier lives; and assisting people who face barriers to find good jobs.
Cllr Javeria Hussain, vice chair of Luton Rising, said: “By working in partnership, we can unlock new opportunities and ensure that investment reaches the projects and people who need it most.
“We’re proud to play our part in Luton’s ongoing growth, increasing our investment in initiatives that help address the underlying causes of inequality and disadvantage, and look forward to seeing the positive change this fund will help create.”
Money will be prioritised for communities with the highest levels of deprivation.
Registered charities, charitable incorporated organisations, community interest companies, social enterprises and other voluntary and community sector organisations are encouraged to apply.
Applications close on September 7 and the public will get the chance to have their say on shortlisted applications before final decisions are announced in October.
Click here to apply.
Sue Jones, deputy chief executive for Active Luton, said: “The additional Partnership Fund will help create further positive impacts for Luton and its residents by investing in key areas, including supporting young people, improving employability, and continuing the drive to tackle health inequalities.
"The fund’s emphasis on collaboration will also encourage organisations to work together, strengthening connections across Luton’s charitable sector and enabling even greater benefits for the local community.”
Social change consultant Clare Kiely added: "Every community has people with ideas, experience and the determination to make things better. The Luton Rising Partnership Fund is an opportunity to unlock that potential by bringing people together, and help create a healthier, fairer and more prosperous Luton for everyone."