Posted on Tuesday 30th July 2024
L to : Martha of Peak Wildlife Park, and DVCAG Volunteers Graham Wood, Stephen Egerton, Mark Simms, Elen Rees, Carolyn Brain and David Brain
Communities across Staffordshire are set to benefit from £93,000 funding for projects that help tackle climate change.
The Staffordshire County Council Climate Change Action Fund is in its 5th year and has so far allocated over £267,000 to 290 non-profit groups.
One group that has made a difference in the community with the funding is Dane Valley Climate Action Group (DVCAG) who received £1,000 towards the costs of protecting the young trees planted during the DVCAG Tree Planting Programme 2023/24. Altogether during the season, DVCAG Volunteers planted 2,460 trees on 13 sites over 23 planting sessions.
The funding of £1,000 paid for the protective materials for nearly 400 of the trees planted.
Watch this video to see more about the project.
Philip White, Staffordshire County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills said:
“Tackling climate change remains a top priority for the county council and we are committed to reaching net zero by 2050. We hugely value the contribution that community groups can make locally to delivering this goal and I’m delighted to have this scheme running for its fifth year.
“The first part is on a first come, first served basis, so I strongly encourage groups to speak with their councillor to make an application. We can all make a big difference by working together.”
The funding is open to not-for profit organisations including charities, societies, voluntary and community groups, parish councils and schools.
The scheme will run slightly differently to the previous years:
Part 1:
9 July – 8 October
Each county councillor will have £1,500 to allocate to projects in their area starting at £500 and a maximum of £3,000 if paired up with another member. This phase will be on a first come, first served basis and groups will be informed 6 weeks after making a complete, valid application.
Part 2:
8 October – 13 December
Part 2 will be for applications for projects on renewable energy and the circular economy. Groups will be able to apply for £3,000 - £5,000. The best, most innovative projects will be awarded funding.
Julian Ruddock, Chair and Secretary of Dane Valley Climate Action Group said: “We exist to raise awareness locally about the climate, and nature crisis. Our main practical activity is planting trees. Most people enjoy seeing a nice, pristine countryside and are happy to do their bit to look after it.
“Funding is necessary for any project, even if it’s just for materials, the fund is ideal. When you apply, you have to get the support of your county councillor. The application is straightforward and you’re dealing with people sympathetic to the cause which is good.”
Groups can only apply in one part.
To apply for a grant, organisations will first need to speak with their county councillor and then apply online at: www.staffordshire.gov.uk/climatefund