Fund opens to support Aberdeenshire groups which promote mental health and wellbeing

Community, voluntary, and third sector organisations in Aberdeenshire can apply for up to £50,000 to deliver initiatives that promote mental health and wellbeing.

Applications are welcomed from small to medium-sized groups and organisations – with incomes ranging from under £25,000 per annum up to £1 million per annum.

The Scottish Government fund has been established in response to the mental health need arising from the pandemic.

It will provide grants to small, grassroots groups and organisations to develop a culture of mental wellbeing and prevention within local communities and across Scotland, with improved awareness of how people can stay well and help others.

The funding will be distributed by Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action (AVA) which will act as lead partners to groups and organisations within the region.

Applications will be accepted in two phases from Wednesday, November 17 to Tuesday, December 7 and from Wednesday, January 5 to Tuesday, March 15 or until all the money has been allocated, whichever is sooner.

Gordon MP Richard Thomson has highlighted the new funding opportunity from the Scottish Government, with a total of £631,000 to be distributed in the region.

Mr Thomson said: “There is a huge wealth of groups across the north-east run by dedicated and committed volunteers and many of these have proved vital during the pandemic, either by performing essential tasks or simply by being there for members of the community.

“This funding will allow groups to develop what they have been doing and help build more community resilience as we go forward and, hopefully, emerge from the pandemic.”

Visit the AVA website for more information, guidelines, application form and support with applying at www.avashire.org.uk/cmhwfund

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