Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about grants:

Q1. What type of grants does the Council provide?
A1. The Council provides modest funding for bonafide community/voluntary groups for a wide range of activities. These include seeding support grants (maximum of £100), community development grants to support initiatives such as training, skills development, information days and capacity building, community economic development/social economy grants to support community business (not for profit) initiatives, and grants to support community events and sports groups. The grants section provides detailed information on all types of grants provided by the Council.

Q2. Has the Council published any policies in relation to issuing grants?
A2. Yes. You can find out about the Council's grants policy in the grants section. A policy has been developed for each type of grant which the Council supports.

Q3. What is the maximum amount that the Council will award to a group or individual?
A3. Each application is judged on its own merits, but grants tend to be in the region of £250 - £500.  However, if the project is innovative, promotes the quality of life of local residents with evidence of community support for the project, the Council may consider granting a higher award.

Q4. I am having difficulty filling in my grant application form. Who can help me?
A4. You should be in receipt of a 'guidance manual' which accompanies the application form. If you do not have this manual, please let us know and we will forward you a copy. This manual is a 'step by step' guide designed to help you answer the questions posed. At the rear of the manual, you will also find information on a list of individuals, who have kindly agreed to assist groups with the completing the application form. They include:

Q5. Can an individual or group submit more than one grant application in the same year?
A5. Under the schemes mentioned, the Council cannot fund individuals. Groups can make more than one application per year. However, as Council finances are limited, the group would need to ensure that there is sufficient demand and support for the project.

Q6. How long does it take to assess a grant application?
A6. The application process can take up to 4 weeks to progress, as it must first be considered at a meeting of the Leisure and Development Committee which usually meets on the second Monday of the month. The recommendations will then progress for ratification at the next meeting of full Council, normally the first Monday in the month. We would suggest that you send in your completed application form at least six weeks prior to the date that the funding is required.

Q7. Will I have to provide support information along with my grant application?
A7. Yes we do ask for additional information depending upon the type of project.  For example, if the project involves young people and/or vulnerable adults we will ask for a copy of the groups child protection policy. If the project is a festival or large event, we would want to see evidence that a risk assessment has been carried out. If your group does not have a child protection policy in place and has not received training in child protection and would be interested in undertaking a course we would like to hear from you.

Q8. Can I appeal if my grant application is unsuccessful?
A8. Yes. You can find information about the process in the grant aid policy document.

Q9. How can I submit or ask a question about grants?
A9. You can submit a question by selecting the 'Contact Us' link in the left hand navigation listing. Alternatively, you can contact the Council on 028 4066 0600.