The Fund is now accepting applications from locally-focussed, legally-constituted not-for-profit organisations who are working to create resilient rural communities across the UK in the wake of the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic.
Grants of up to £10,000 are available for up to one year. Projects must be completed within one year of their start date and no later than 31 March 2022. Some match funding is required.
The grants will cover revenue costs that are directly associated with projects that are helping rural communities deal with the negative effects of the pandemic.
To date the funding has been used to address and combat issues such as isolation, financial pressures, and issues with physical and mental health. Grants have supported a range of projects including a volunteer-run telephone helpline that supports local farmers, local transport to help rural residents access vital services, helping rural communities access and learn how to use online services, and the re-opening of a village shop in a remote rural community.
Groups are advised to apply early as a large number of applications are expected and the fund may close earlier than the published deadline.
The deadline for applications is midday on 3 November 2020.