Aberdeenshire Council recently approved the creation of the support mechanism in light of the Covid-19 pandemic.

 Constituted community groups, resilience groups and volunteering organisations can submit a simple application form to the Council’s Area Managers, with the implementation of the resilience fund following a similar approach to the existing Area Committee budgets.   

Garioch Area Committee  has been allocated £20,000  to support projects/initiatives related to the current pandemic.

Grants of up to £2,000 for community resilience work are available and will be awarded on a first-come basis.   

As further community resilience funds become available from the Scottish Government, the value of grants and the criteria will be reviewed, however the principle aim at present is to be as flexible as possible for each individual community.

Area Managers’ teams, along with Community Learning and Development, Public Health and Aberdeenshire Voluntary Action the Rural Partnerships and other partners, will continue to work with community resilience groups and volunteers in their areas to provide support and identify any gaps in provision. 

A coordinated approach is also being made with the Local Resilience Partnership and in particular with the British Red Cross, Aberdeen City Council and The Moray Council to ensure the maximum benefit, coverage and support is provided across the Grampian area.

 Please continue to signpost requests for assistance thought the assistance hub at www.gcah.org.uk or the freephone number 0808 196 3384. Similarly groups offering support can also register on the hub .

Please also direct groups looking for advice to the Area Managers to ensure a coordinated approach at local level.

An application form and guidance is available through this link  https://www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/communities-and-events/funding/community-resilience-covid-19/   for your information and onward communication.