Cheshire Community Action’s AGM and Community Building event celebrated the awarding of grants to four impactful local projects, empowering communities through environmental, youth, celebratory and inclusive initiatives.

CCA MEMBER GRANT SCHEME

The Cheshire Community Action (CCA) Annual General and Members Network Meeting took place on 7 November at Mere and Tabley Community Club, bringing together members and stakeholders to celebrate achievements, share insights and plan for the future. A highlight of the day was the announcement of this year’s CCA Member Grant Scheme recipients, with four projects awarded funding to drive impactful community initiatives.

EMPOWERING LOCAL PROJECTS: THIS YEAR’S GRANT RECIPIENTS

This year’s grants of £500 each will support diverse and inspiring initiatives across Cheshire:

COMMUNITY GREEN TEAM EXPANSION – ALLOSTOCK VILLAGE HALL

Earlier in 2024, the Allostock Village Hall Social Committee launched a ‘spring clean,’ encouraging community members to help tidy the outdoor areas around the hall. This initiative evolved into a recurring activity with volunteers forming the ‘Green Team,’ whose work has already enhanced the local environment and inspired community pride. 
 
With funding now secured, the Green Team is set to expand its activities in 2025. Plans include purchasing a community compost bin and shared tools and creating bug hotels with the involvement of local children. The funding will also support the continuation of regular clean-up days, ensuring that this initiative’s momentum and positive impact continue.

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF COMMUNITY – ALLOSTOCK VILLAGE HALL ANNIVERSARY FAIR

Next summer, the village hall will celebrate its 100th anniversary. Plans are underway to hold a celebratory village fair featuring food, music, and entertainment to bring residents together and showcase the hall’s facilities. This event will also provide an opportunity to engage with new residents and foster a stronger sense of community. 

Thanks to the funding, the committee can now confidently plan the celebration and ensure it is a memorable occasion for all, despite previous financial constraints caused by essential building repairs.

YOUTH ENGAGEMENT – CHILDREN AND YOUNG PERSONS ADVISORY PANEL

A children and young persons advisory panel has recently been established, supported by the local social prescriber and a community interest company (CIC). The panel’s purpose is to gather insights into what young people in the area need and want, aiming to shape future services and develop provisions to meet those needs. 
 
With funding now secured, the panel will host its first event to engage young people, demonstrate the value of their contributions and encourage greater involvement in shaping their community. The funding will also help develop the group’s capacity to plan future events and activities, supporting youth empowerment and skill development.

INCLUSIVE PLAY FOR ALL – GAWSWORTH PLAY AREA RENOVATION

Plans to renovate the Gawsworth play area are in place, as many items of equipment are at the end of their usable life and need replacement. While the main renovation scheme is already funded, additional funding will now allow for a significant enhancement – a high-backed, inclusive swing seat. 

This addition will ensure children of all abilities can enjoy the play area in this Cheshire East village, providing a more inclusive space for families and fostering a sense of community within the park.

BUILDING MOMENTUM FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE

The event showcased the power of community action, as our chief executive, Mark Reading, emphasised the significance of small grants in catalysing meaningful change. With these projects now poised for implementation, CCA continues to be a driving force for grassroots initiatives across Cheshire.

Stay tuned for updates as these inspiring projects take shape in the months ahead!