Agenda item

The Area Council Manager reminded Members of discussion at the previous meeting of the Area Council, where the development of a Wellbeing Fund had been supported.  Members heard how a task and finish group had been convened to consider criteria and guidance for the fund.  On 6^th December, 2018 the group met, with representation from each ward, and from the Healthier Communities Service, who had agreed to contribute to the fund.

The task and finish group had developed documentation, and recommended that awards be granted from £5-30,000, with higher only to be awardedn in exceptional circumstances. It was considered essential to ensure that there was delivery in each ward in the area.

A figure of £90,000 from the Area Council was suggested, together with £34,000 from the Healthier Communities Service to provide a total fund of £124,000.  It was suggested that awards be given for one financial year, and was noted that applications would need to address the criteria circulated.  Members noted that the criteria included consideration of the sustainability of the intervention after the initial funding period.

Members noted the proposed timeline for implementation, with a workshop arranged for interested parties to find out more.

RESOLVED:-

(i)           That a Central Area Council Wellbeing Fund for 2019/20 be established as detailed in the report;

(ii)          That authorisation be given to the Executive Director Communities to approve Central Area Council Wellbeing Grants to a total value of £124,000 (£90,000 from Central Area Council and £34,000 from the Healthier Communities Service), following consultation with the Central Wellbeing Fund Evaluation Panel, and ensuring coverage across the area.