Local community groups and charities have an exciting opportunity to experience world-class sports and outdoor activities for free, thanks to a new funding round from Lee Valley Regional Park Authority. The authority has set aside a generous fund of £118,000 to help people overcome cost barriers and inspire a love for new sports and activities over the coming year.
Who Can Apply?
Not-for-profit organisations, registered charities, and voluntary groups that support underserved communities in London, Essex, and Hertfordshire can now apply for grants. Successful applicants can receive up to £1,000 in Community Access Funding to cover the costs of expert coaching or transport to the park.
About Lee Valley Regional Park
The regional park stretches 26 miles from East India Dock Basin on the Thames, through east and north London to Ware in Hertfordshire. Visitors can enjoy a tapestry of award-winning open spaces, historic sites, and world-class sport and leisure venues. Available activities include white water rafting on the London 2012 Olympic rapids, cycling at the world's fastest velodrome, ice skating, horse riding, and tennis.
School Opportunities
Schools with a 20 per cent or higher pupil premium can also apply for transport funding to take part in outdoor learning sessions. These sessions include guided lake and river walks, minibeast hunts, sustainability workshops, and woodland crafts.
Active Communities Grant Scheme
Groups wishing to run longer projects that increase physical activity can apply for the Active Communities Grant Scheme. This larger scheme is designed to support organisations working with people who are marginalised from society at a local level for social, economic, or cultural reasons.
Impact and Testimonial
Since its launch in 2015, the community fund has already enabled more than 30,000 people to enjoy new experiences in the park. Shaun Dawson, chief executive of Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, said: "We know how vitally important it is for all communities to have access to open space, sports and leisure opportunities. Part of our mission that frames what we do is to improve the health and wellbeing of communities across the region so our Community Access Fund and Active Communities Grant Scheme were created to help break down barriers for those people who, for reasons of cost or circumstance, may not otherwise be able to visit Lee Valley Regional Park and take advantage of the fabulously diverse opportunities it offers."
How to Apply
Applications are now open for the scheme, which looks set to bring joy to thousands more residents this year. Interested groups can find full details on the criteria and how to apply by visiting the Lee Valley Park website.
