Babergh is delivering vital support to incredible organisations already helping those in our communities most exposed to the cost-of-living crisis.

The VCFSE Resilience Fund for voluntary, community, faith and social enterprises (VCFSE) in the district, with £50,000 available specifically targeted at supporting grassroots and medium-sized groups to keep them financially viable in these challenging times.

Up to £5,000 is available for applicants meeting the criteria for the fund, which closes on 26 February. 

New projects are welcome but not required – any fundamental costs such as salaries, training, equipment and expenses can be included in an application.   

Only VCFSE organisations with constitutions are eligible to apply, such as Community Interest Companies (CICs), registered charities or unincorporated associations. They must either operate in, or be based in, Babergh or Mid Suffolk, and have a turnover between £500-£200,000pa.

Mary McLaren, cabinet member for Communities and Wellbeing, said: "Those people and groups already active in our communities are delivering some of the most vital support. Local, personal contact and care is just crucial for those that receive it in rural districts like ours, and we are working hard to ensure as many of them continue to serve their patrons as possible.

"This new fund truly could be a lifeline for a grassroots organisation, allowing them to stay afloat while helping others do the same. No one is immune to the effects of inflation and the cost of living crisis, and the same is true of those helping those in need."

A full list of criteria can be found on the VCFSE Resilience Fund webpage, along with the application form.