Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead – Press Release

29.5.2024

Have you a great idea to improve wellbeing in your community?

Applications are now open for the fifth round of Innovation Funding for community-led projects to launch and run health and wellbeing initiatives across the Royal Borough.

The scheme is managed by the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead in partnership with NHS Frimley. Forty-seven local organisations have so far benefitted from Innovation Funding to support wellbeing in their communities, tackle inequalities and improve access to services.

Projects are wide in scope and include groups to encourage and protect biodiversity, football sessions for children, and yoga for Asian women. A full list of all the successful applicants can be found on the Innovation Funding section on the RBWM Together website.

Applications for this fifth round opened this week (28 May) and is due to close at midnight on Tuesday 23 July. It offers one-off funding per successful application of up to £5,000 to get their projects up and running.

Although applications are welcome for any project which can show how it will improve local health and wellbeing, this round is particularly looking for ideas that will support:

  • Unpaid carers
  • Families children and young people
  • People with learning disabilities
  • Addressing isolation and loneliness by improving community connections

Kevin McDaniel, Executive Director of Adult Social Care and Health, said: “As the previous 47 successful applicants have shown, they know best what’s needed in their communities; what will work best to improve health and wellbeing.

“That’s the strength of this funding. It empowers our residents and local organisations with the funding they need to make a difference. They’re the driving force for positive change. So, if you’ve good a great idea, please do apply.”

Nicola Airey, Director of Places and Communities, said: “The Innovation Fund is a great example of how we can empower our communities to deliver community led initiatives that can improve access to services, prevent health risks, tackle social isolation and loneliness, and reduce mental or physical health inequalities.

“We want to hear about your idea. We’re looking for community-led projects that will make a difference to communities.

“By placing more resources in the hands of members of our communities, we’re empowering local people in the search for solutions to better their health and wellbeing.”

For details on how to apply, and the application process, please visit the Innovation Fund section on the RBWM Together website.

ENDS