Annual Report 2014/15 Including 5 year review

Copeland Community Fund c/o The Copeland Centre Catherine Street CA28 7SJ [email protected] Tel: 01946 598352 www.copelandcommunityfund.co.uk

£10.9 million invested in Copeland from 2010 to 2015 Providing a sustainable source of funding for the local community Chair’s Report This year saw the fifth year of funding from Copeland Community Fund Background to groups and organisations in the Copeland area. Over this five year period we have committed nearly £11 million in 178 grants to 126 The Fund was established to recognise the unique role the Copeland community plays in different organisations. hosting the national Low Level Waste Repository close to the village of . The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority pay £1.5 million per year into the Fund for every year that the Some key information for this year: current operational vault receives waste: in addition to an initial endowment of £10 million. l £1.9M of grants approved in 2014/15 l £6.2M of match funding John Rowlands A board of directors representing Copeland Borough Council, County Council, l Number of grants allocated: 22 Nuclear Decommissioning Authority and two independent members manage the fund.

A delegated panel comprising CCC, CBC and NDA representatives meet monthly to Over the course of the last twelve months, I have been fortunate enough to begin my receive applications and make decisions on grants under £50,000. involvement with the Copeland Community Fund. My introduction to the Fund, has been hugely interesting and equally inspiring. As you progress through the report, you will see the The Community Development Team offer support to community groups and organisations outstanding results that have been achieved. These achievements have not been possible as well as managing the grants given by the fund. Both Copeland Borough Council and without the hard work of an exceptional team, some of whom, after this year are moving onto Cumbria County Council support this process. pastures new. It therefore seems fitting that we acknowledge each of these members and wish them well for the future. This year saw the launch of our priority issue Haig Mining Museum to revenue funding for many of aimed at helping people move from dependence to the youth projects across Copeland. Some projects independence. We were able to offer grants to four have funded renovation of the local village hall, projects this year, with more applications expected in whereas others have funded job and training the future. The projects are supporting the people of opportunities across Copeland. The long term Board Copeland by providing job search advice, homeless impact of these projects will continue to benefit the accommodation, practical skills and transportation community for years to come. John Rowlands to get to work or college. These projects will provide In this, my first year as Chair of the Fund it has been Independent Member - Chair long term benefits not just to those individuals but to wonderful to see the determination of the people of their families as well. Copeland to work for change and improvement in Elaine Parslow The Development Team have continued to offer vital their community. The projects run by volunteers that support to community groups. This has been done make a real difference to the heart of the community. Elaine Parslow Cllr David Moore Independent Member by working directly with groups as well as running Our Community Development Team are always a variety of funding courses, volunteer celebration interested in hearing about new projects and will Cllr David Moore events and a funding fair in conjunction with Cumbria continue to offer support and advice about planning Copeland Borough Council CVS. and managing your project as well as advice about As we reach our five year point, we’ve taken the funding, and of course we are always looking for new opportunity to look back and consider the long term projects to fund. So get in touch and tell us about Cllr Elaine Woodburn impact of our funding. This report highlights the wide your project. Copeland Borough Council variety of projects funded across the whole of John Rowlands Copeland. From large capital projects such as the

Cllr Elaine Woodburn Cllr Tim Knowles Cllr Tim Knowles Cumbria County Council Heather Askew Elaine Parslow Elaine Woodburn Cllr David Southward Heather has been running the Elaine was already an Elaine, along with Tim Knowles, Cumbria County Council fund with great passion for the independent member when I was one of the founder members past three years. During my short joined the board 18 months of the fund. Brian Hough time with the fund I came to ago. During the past year, it has Not only was she instrumental rely heavily on Heather for been invaluable to have another in the setting up of the fund, but Nuclear Decommissioning Authority information, support and advice independent view to call upon. Elaine has been a leading figure in not to mention her invaluable I would like to thank Elaine for all Cllr David Southward Brian Hough moulding the fund into what it is assistance during meetings. of her efforts and support for her today. Elaine will be sadly missed She has led the team with two years supporting the fund and for her contributions to the fund. distinction and she will be sorely wish her success for the future. I wish her every success in the missed and I would like to take future and again I would hope this opportunity to wish Heather that one day we may work again all the best for the future and together. sincerely hope that we can work together again in the future.

22 3 Priority Issue 2014-2016 The Drigg & Carleton Community Fund

In March 2014 the Board of Copeland Community Fund agreed the following Priority Issue for the period April 2014 to March 2016.

Improving Wellbeing of Copeland Residents, by equipping individuals to be able to take advantage of opportunities, to move from dependence to independence l During this two year period the following targets will be in place for the annual payment of £1.5million for approved funding (depending on demand): o One third to priority projects (small and large) o One third to large projects o One third to small projects l The Priority Issue will be reviewed at the end of the period.

Individual Projects meeting this priority would be expected to achieve significant contributions to at least one of the following outputs: l Jobs Created (Job must be in place for at least 12 months) l Local People Helped to Secure Employment, Education or Training The usual match funding requirements will be in place.

In the first year of this priority four projects were funded to a value of £308,136. As part of the original agreement Work is continuing to help develop further projects that will meet this priority issue. that set up the Copeland Community Projects Fund, £50,000 a year was allocated The Drigg & Carleton Community Fund accepts applications for projects The projects are: to Drigg and Carleton Parish to for the benefit of the local community. Some of the projects championed Phoenix Enterprise Centre with Connecting Copeland’s Inspira are expanding recognise their unique position in and led by the local community in the last five years include: Digitally Excluded. This project is a continuation of their previous Wheels playing host to the Low Level • Drigg beach project work by the Phoenix Enterprise Centre that provides IT to Work Schemes in Waste Repository. • Parish bridleway improvements facilities across Copeland with supported IT access to Copeland. The project The Drigg Charity separately • Drigg village hall improvements the unemployed in order to apply for jobs. Professional provides loans of 2Work administers these funds for the Wheels • Bradbury House community day care facility support is available in four sites in Copeland: Cleator mopeds with appropriate Aged 16+ and need wheelsWheels to 2 getWork to couldwork, bego forto you training or learning? 01931 711300 benefit of the residents in that Moor; Whitehaven; Egremont and with the training and on-going For more information please call Inspira on: area. The trustees of the charity • Reading Room target of working with 400 people and helping 80 of support to enable are made up of local parish • Gosforth Nursery play equipment individuals to access them to find jobs in the year the project is running. councillors and independent • Gosforth Primary School IT equipment education, employment Time to Change (West Cumbria) have secured funds members. Over the last five years or training. With the purchase of 15 new vehicles • Contribution to the Drigg & Carleton Bursary Fund for their innovative homeless hostel in Egremont. the Drigg & Carleton Community the project will help over 100 people secure jobs or Calderwood House is being created from the former Fund (DCCF) has worked within the Community Realm training over a three year period. local community to support events Police Station in Egremont. It will provide housing and Each year the DCCF has committed funds for the upkeep and Home to Work in successfully completed and projects. Expenditure from the support for upto 11 people at a time, with a focus on improvement of the public realm in the local community. This has a pilot project called Skills 4 You in 2015 and with this DCCF is to align to the NDA’s Socio ex-military personnel. included grass cutting, hedge laying and cutting, floral displays and experience were able to expand the programme Economic Policy and the Drigg footpath maintenance. and received grant funding for a further two years. Charity constitution. The DCCF has its own application process. The project offers an engagement programme for Community Events individuals through a practical experience in a Projects have also drawn funding The DCCF has also supported a number of community events over the workshop setting with one to one mentoring. Over a from other sources, increasing the years. These events are run by volunteer groups and contribute to the two year period the project will work with 100 people impact in the community. health and wellbeing of the residents and help form the backbone of the with at least 40 directly going on to secure Any funds left at the end of the community. These have included: employment or further education or training. year remain in the Drigg & Carleton These projects show a variety of approaches with Community Fund for use in future The Children’s Christmas Party; Christmas Gift for senior citizens; Tea & practical solutions on how to help people move from years on community projects. Chat summer outings; Bonfire Night; Annual Gala Event and an Annual dependence to independence. The fund is interested There are several extensive projects Hog Roast fund raising event. in hearing about further projects that can help achieve being proposed for the future that With the DCCF support, these community events are growing stronger this aim. will utilise these funds. and in most cases the level of DCCF funding is reducing.

4 5 Whole Borough

Copeland Work and Skills Partnership Whitehaven Community Trust

Apprentice Initiative ‘Move On’ accommodation Albert Newell, Apprentice Phase 1 - Grant Approved January 2011 - £99,272 (3 years) Project Cost: £248,180 Grant Approved: June 2012 Phase 2 - Grant Approved July 2012 - £92,500 (21/2 years) Project Cost: £302,500 Grant Award: £49,000

This was a partnership initiative driven forward by assisted towards reducing levels of worklessness Project Cost: £159,600 Copeland’s Work and Skills Partnership to develop across Copeland and supported the Government’s apprenticeship opportunities for Copeland residents National campaign ‘Backing Young Britain’. In 1991, The Whitehaven Youth Trust (formed in 1990) aged 16+ not in employment, education and The emphasis was on the programme delivering became The Whitehaven Community Trust, reflecting training (NEET) and unemployed individuals in other quality apprenticeships in the job related growth areas: the widening activities of the organisation to age groups. It also supported an additional number Tourism, Agriculture, Leisure, Outdoor Adventure, encompass the needs of the community as of learners with basic skills / skills for life – numeracy Catering & Hospitality, Farming, Retail, Construction, a whole. and literacy - to enable them to progress as they work Social Care and Knowledge - Based Business. Whilst running projects that cater for the whole towards gaining entry requirements for this and other Due to the success of Phase 1, and the clear need community, the core area of expertise lies in work apprenticeship frameworks. for a programme, Phase 2 funding was approved. The initiative followed a successful job creation with young people in particular The Supported Other funding was secured from: Working Housing where disadvantaged, homeless young programme, Copeland Future Jobs Fund Initiative, Neighbourhood Fund and Nuclear Decommissioning people are assisted to gain skills that enable them delivered by the Work and Skills Partnership which Authority and individual businesses. to progress into independent living. Impact Bakewell House opened in 1998 providing a service that was much needed and became so successful Chris Pickles, Project Lead said, ”The aim of the Comments from employers involved in the programme scheme was to benefit individuals who are not suggested they felt the benefits of employing that the demand for places was higher than the bed currently in employment, education or training and apprentices. Improved efficiency / productivity was spaces available. engage Copeland employers, some of which have little found to be the main benefit to employers with 78% In 2005 Lowther Street the second Supported or no previous history of engagement in this type of stating this. The recruitment of apprentices resulted in Accommodation project opened offering a further Impact work related support. The apprenticeships offer a route local businesses being better resourced especially as 9 bed spaces. Both hostels are fully occupied a significant proportion of apprentices have continued into work and are a proven way to train workforces. throughout the year with a permanent waiting list due Kerry Maxwell, project lead and WCT Chief to be employed locally and this added to the skills set We recognised businesses were crying out for practical to the increasing problem of homeless young people Executive said “Smith House was completed within the workplace. help and support and that is exactly what the scheme and the recognition by agencies working with young in November 2013 enabling the Trust to broaden On completion of the scheme findings indicated that was offering. The help with wages combined with people with complex needs that they will be it’s portfolio, adding value and services that they professional training helped businesses with both their a high percentage of those who completed had a supported in a safe secure environment 24 hours are able to offer. The project has transformed the bottom line and with ensuring they had the right staff to positive outcome. 42% secured employment with lives of local young people and will give them an seven days a week. move their businesses forward.“ their current employer upon completion whereas 27% incentive to achieve their own personal goals.” secured employment with other employers. These In response to the need for additional accommodation Chris added, “Working alongside Lakes College and Kerry added, “all of the self-contained studio flats employers included Cemac Construction, United for young people, a building was purchased in Inspira, we have been delighted to be at the forefront of have a kitchenette, shower room and good sized this project. The scheme has exceeded its targets and Utilities, Sellafield and the NHS. Whitehaven in 2010 to be renovated to provide living area, which we feel is adequate to meet created 50 new apprenticeships across a wide range Quote (Albert Newell who undertook a Motor Vehicle ‘Move On’ accommodation for young people that the needs of our young people. Since the project of subject areas including customer services, joinery, Apprenticeship (Level 2) at Mill Garage, Frizington): are ready for more independent living but still require opened we have had a continuous rotation of health and social care, business administration and “The most important thing for me is that I now have a ongoing support with security at night to enable them tenants and 3 successful planned moves. All 3 engineering,” job and a trade. I know I am a more confident person to learn how to manage a tenancy successfully. tenants left the service after securing their own The main achievements of the programme have been: and through this opportunity I have been able to meet In 2011/2012 The Trust worked hard to secure tenancies with local housing associations. 2 are 1) the ability to engage with a notoriously difficult new people both at work and socially. I was only able funding to convert the building into 4 self-contained volunteering locally and actively seeking target group (NEET); to be part of this scheme through accessing a place semi-independent flats to accommodate 4 young employment and 1 is in full time education.” 2) the ability to engage with a wide range of on Inspira’s Wheels2Work scheme which provided people at any one time with stays of between 6 and employers / sectors; transport to help me get to my workplace. Through On exiting our move on accommodation, the 12 months depending upon the individual needs prior 3) national recognition of the scheme at a national having a regular income I am able to go out tenants completed a short questionnaire. All to moving to their own tenancy independently, and Conference in London in November 2011; with my friends more, something I struggled to do feedback we received was extremely positive previously. Being voted Apprentice of the Year at the becoming a responsible member of the community. 4) secured further funding through the Coalfields and WCT are confident that the service they are Lakes College Awards Evening 2012 was something Regeneration Trust to fund a further 20 places; Other funding was secured from: Francis C Scott providing is helping to reduce the chances of I am very proud of.” 5) achieved 69% job outcomes as part of the scheme Charitable Trust and Whitehaven Community Trust’s young people failing their tenancies and which far exceeds national benchmarks of 35% on Reserves. re-presenting as homeless. employability programmes.

6 7 Whole Borough Whitehaven

Whitehaven, Egremont and District Credit Union Whitehaven Harbour Youth Project 1: Development Officer and Finance Officer Project: Personal Development of Young People

Grant Approved: 1 February 2011 - £20,000 (1 year) Project Cost: £50,051 Grant Approved: December 2011 Grant Award: £90,000 (3 years) Project Cost: £523,547 Project 2: Made of Money and Ready for Reform Grant Approved: March 2015 Grant Award: £150,000 (5 years) Grant Approved: January 2013 - £25,000 (2 years) Project Cost: £44,000 Project Cost: £610,343

Whitehaven, Egremont & District Credit Whitehaven Harbour Youth Project is Union were newly formed in April 2010 Impact based in the centre of Whitehaven and has been running for nearly 20 years. as the result of a merger between The project has been a great success, Whitehaven Credit Union, and all the feedback has been brilliant and Their mission is to give young people an Egremont & District Credit Union. everyone who has attended the workshops opportunity to develop their potential, to understand themselves and others, to The two credit unions were set up have said it was engaging and entertaining, enjoy life and to contribute positively to to address the issue of financial with just the right amount of worksheets and presentations (everyone enjoyed the the world. exclusion, which a lot of low income taste tests in particular!). No one found the families and individuals suffer from. The project has just completed one subject matter boring or embarrassing and grant from the Fund to support its work They also needed to address the most attendees took something back to problem of the high cost of borrowing money (from banks or give to friends/relatives. We had the ability with young people over a three year doorstep lenders etc.) and to encourage regular saving. The aim to tailor the workshops to specific groups, period and the fund has just awarded a was effectively to establish a community-run business, which including one to ones from time to time grant to cover a further five years. would actively encourage members to add to their savings whilst which again have been beneficial to the The project operates a full program of at the same time would give them access to low cost affordable individuals who have attended. drop-in youth group activities catering loans. Junior savers schemes were also set up to encourage Around 67% of the attendees have joined for ages 7 to 18. In the last three years saving at a young age, which would hopefully break the cycle the Credit Union as a direct result of the we have increased our opening hours of reliance on doorstep lending – which has become a pattern in courses and some have become excellent from 4 to 6 days a week. many families. members - savers and borrowers. Gina McCabe, Project Manager gives Millom Credit Union was incorporated in September 2013 and all 15 people were referred to other the following update: are still working to further fulfil these aims. organisations as a direct result of attending the courses, for intensive support, CAB, We run from an extremely well Andrea Dockeray, Development Manager said “Our first grant Howgill Family Centre, Home Group etc. equipped premises with sports hall from the Copeland Community Fund was to deliver our services Some attendees became volunteers, and and climbing wall and we strive to offer and new financial products including Growth Fund money, in have since gained training via NVQ’s, and as much variety and opportunity as we facilities, local partners, and our qualified staff to make this happen. house in order to achieve improved sustainability. This led to an two have gone into part time work as a can to local young people. There are Wherever possible we offer extra activities during the holidays and at increase in membership and low cost loans taken – which families direct result and still volunteering for the weekends including outdoor adventure days and excursions out of who have low incomes found it beneficial reducing their depend- currently 8 opportunities for achieving Credit Union. county. Recent examples of this include a trip to the National Indoor ency for high-cost lending (Door Step lenders & Pay Day Loans).” accreditations including the Duke of Case Study Edinburgh Award, the National Indoor Cycling Centre in Manchester to experience the thrill of the Olympic Andrea added “the second grant was to help educate our Miss D has mild learning difficulties and Climbing Scheme Award, the Youth velodrome, numerous inter-county and out of county table tennis members and wider members of the community about had got herself into a muddle with her Achievement Award, and Canoe tournaments, outdoor climbing trips and visits to other indoor becoming much more financially savvy. The practical and finances, she attended a Your Money Paddle Power to name but climbing venues, beach adventure days, and a trip to Blackpool interactive workshops and guidance provided have made a real workshop through the Credit Union on a few – all introduced with a view to Pleasure Beach. impact in the way some people shop, and more importantly think a one to one basis to assist with her the project having a positive and long about how to make the best use of the limited funds they have. situation. We helped her understand Other funding was secured from: Big Lottery, Earned Income, lasting impact on the futures of young It highlighted to us that there is a real need in our local where her finances were going and what Francis C. Scott, Fundraising, Garfield Weston, Inspira, NMP people. We constantly work with young community for those who are both employed and on she should be concentrating paying, and Tudor Trust. people to understand the impact of the benefits to be more financially aware.” priority and non priority arrears. She joined the Credit Union and has saved for a few work that we do and to ensure that the Other funding was secured from: Home Group, Cumbria County months, getting herself back on track has program we offer is addressing locally Council and Children in Need. given her the confidence to get a part time identified need. Our current focus is on job and has since taken out a small loan increasing participation in sporting and and is regularly saving. physical activity and we are using our

8 9 Whitehaven

Haig Colliery Mining Museum Impact Has WHYP changed you in any way? During the course of our funding from Copeland My interests have changed over the years due to Project: Haig Pit Visitor Centre Community Fund we took the opportunity to the opportunities WHYP has given me. I got hooked interview some of our young people about the on sailing and due to this, developed an interest in Grant Approved: December 2011 Grant Award: £470,000 Project Cost: £2,203,586 impact that WHYP has had on their live. joining the Navy. I recently passed all my entry exams The interview below encapsulates perfectly the and interviews and start this November 2013 for a ethos of the work that we do:- career in the Navy. Simon Lilly first came to WHYP when he was 12 What are your best memories? years old. He is now 22 and about to embark on a Sweden… who gets a chance at aged 13 to kayak new adventure in the Navy. Simon has been a huge in the Baltic Sea. Went with good people and the contributor to WHYP over the years, both as an whole experience was positive. Won’t forget some enthusiastic participant in pretty much every activity of the views and scenery. Also taught me never to on offer, and more recently as an invaluable volunteer. eat sandwiches when people were taking photos. What did you achieve during your time at WHYP Tyne Tour… didn’t have much experience in kayaks, as a young person and as an adult volunteer? learnt fast new skills and experiences. Sailing Ocean Kayaking level 1 award, Bronze/Silver Duke of Youth Trust… gave me new skills that I can transfer in Edinburgh, Royal Yachting Association Competent my career like navigation, boat skills, gained my RYA Crew Award, Runner up in Young Cumbria’s Competent Crew award. Was an inspirational trip Volunteer of the Year, Food Hygiene Level 1. because when I came off the boat, I had to do it again and knew I wanted that as a job. How did WHYP help you and why? Helped me grow in confidence because doing things How would you describe your time here: I don’t normally get to do. My parents noticed how Inspiring, Learnt so much, Enjoyable. I met new much I had grown up and came out of my shell more. fiends, which I keep in contact with even now. Staff It took me out of my comfort zone and I had to adapt. and volunteers were positive role models as they The Haig Colliery Mining Museum has undertaken a major I also gained life skills like cooking, survival in the took me out of my comfort zone and gave me the Impact renovation and improvement project with a grand re-opening outdoors and some of the best night’s sleep have opportunities, they always seem to know how far in February 2015. The project included essential repairs to the Haig quite simply would not have gone been in a sleeping bag on the tent floor. to push me. fabric of the building, provision of a new visitor experience ahead without the funding to develop the and venue space within the existing building. In addition the facility from what really was a semi derelict project has provided a new visitor centre with café, shop and building and critical to this was the ongoing exhibition area. support for the charity board and staff. Kells Amateur Rugby League The museum also benefited from a previous grant of Haig’s presence as a visitor attraction and a £210,000 from the Fund to help with the development community base within Whitehaven builds Project: Welfare Pitch Improvement phase of this project. on the forward tourism and leisure plans Haig can now offer a range of cultural heritage and arts and contributes to the tourism footfall in Grant Approved: March 2014 Grant Award: £3,200 Project Cost: £6,700 activities within the new facility, temporary local exhibitions the town and working together with The and exhibition space, an education and meeting room space, Beacon and Rum Story can make it a full Kells Amateur Rugby League Club were awarded a grant to a vibrant and bright café with a lovely outlook onto the day destination. erect a galvanised barrier system around the rugby field on coastal path. Haig is a work in progress and a very good Kells Welfare Pitch. This was to enable residents from Kells Haig has rooms to hire for a variety of purposes, and storage start has been made, there are more stories and the surrounding area the opportunity to participate and space available to rent. more exhibitions and more projects out volunteer in sport and physical activity in a safe environment The new museum experience brings to life the stories there to work on. whilst also offering a safe environment for spectators memories and artefacts of over 700 years of coal mining, Quotes from visitors book watching the game. currently there are two additional exhibitions, a WW1 Other funding was secured from: Cumbria County Council, exhibition on loan from The Beacon and Tom Fleming A Life “excellent exhibition, brought mining to life Story Homes, Own Funds. in Letters, a calligraphy exhibition from a former mining for the students” Mayfield School engineer. Through this project Haig has created 6 new jobs “Very Interesting, a return visit after 73 in this phase and has retained 3. years” Southend on Sea Impact Other funding was secured from: Charles Haywood, “Much improved well done thanks for The completion of the barrier allowed Kells ARLFC to meet the RFL criteria for playing in the National Cumbria County Council, Foyle Foundation, Garfield Weston, showing us around” Whitehaven Conference League, it helped them attract more people to participate and watch various club activities. The Gurney Charitable Trust, Heritage Lottery Fund, North & West Cumbria FLAG and WREN.

10 11 Howgate and Distington

Moresby Parish Council Rosehill Arts Trust Project: Moresby Parks Play Area Project: Rosehill Development Phase 1

Grant Approved: September 2013 Grant Award: : £20,154 Project Cost: £49,968 Grant Approved: August 2011 Grant Award: £48,000 Project Cost: £120,000

The previous play area at Moresby Parks The Rosehill Theatre is based outside of Whitehaven was in disrepair and had become an in the Howgate and Distington area of Copeland. This eyesore. The Parish Council worked with was the first phase of a project with the overall aim of the local community to design a quality providing the Copeland community with a Local Theatre outdoor community space for the local of National Significance. This phase was to enable the area which would provide a significant development of a strategy for ongoing development environmental improvement. with core community, youth, audience and organisational / development outcomes for Rosehill Theatre. One of the aims of refurbishing the play area was to create a much improved Through this project Rosehill were able to: engage community space within the village specialist fundraisers to develop a capital redevelopment which will be accessible for the plan for the Theatre; engage specialist marketing immediate communities of Moresby support to promote events at the Theatre; and the Parks, Howgate and Low Moresby and development of Expressive Life for all our youth and based actors. It required a significant commitment also the wider Copeland community. community education strategy. by all concerned and had a significant impact on Three very successful events were produced, two in We hope that this will encourage a those involved and audiences alike. greater sense of community as well December 2011 and one in March 2012 each involving Through these projects we delivered 36 as providing improved outdoor play people from diverse communities and of different ages. workshops, working with 212 participants and facilities. Shakespeare’s Christmas Party followed workshops held 4 performances with 508 audience member with community performers run by two specialist The work was completed and the new attending. play area opened in April 2014. practitioners. There were two performances with scenes from a number of plays and sonnets culminating in Other funding was secured from: Arts Council, Other funding was provided by Awards festive fare in the theatre’s foyer! As a result of this work, Corporate Giving, Community Police, Donations, for All and Moresby Parish Council. a group of community performers made a successful Hadfield Trust and Shakespeare Workshop Funding. application to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre’s Open Stages programme. It resulted in workshops and other Impact support from the RSC in further developing performing The impact of this funding and the projects it and producing skills for Shakespeare plays and a supported has enabled the development of our production called Fanfare for the Common Wo/man Taking Part programme and the direction of which they took to a number of community venues. our work with children, young people and Victoria Simmonds is an acclaimed mezzo-soprano community groups. performing on national and international stages. She ‘I wasn’t in a good state. I couldn’t find a communicates well with many different audiences and job and was finding it hard to pick myself up. Impact on this occasion she gave a Christmas concert for ‘Let Them Eat Jam’, kick started a process of Rosehill together with local amateur singers. The concert Helen Conway, Moresby Parish Councillor, said Helen added “the play area continues to be a thinking maybe I can follow the path I want. was held in Our Lady Star of the Sea & St Michael “Improved play facilities was a key concern for real asset to the community and a magnet for It gave me something to work for, gave me involving community choirs and singers of all ages. residents raised in a local residents’ survey. The local families and their children. It has provided confidence and a kick up the bum.’ Parish Council had some funding set aside and a focal point for the village and a safe place for This work has led to a number of similar singing based had successfully applied to Awards for All so it children to play.” projects to great effect and impact through many Let Them Eat Jam Participant was just fantastic when Copeland Community communities with more in progress. “All the participants interviewed cited improved Fund also gave us a grant for £20,154 as this The Coney project, Let Them Eat Jam was health and wellbeing as a result of taking part.” allowed us to extend the variety of play commissioned as part of the West Cumbria Arts From the evaluation of Let them Eat Jam in the equipment we could provide. We were able Engagement Project. The story of the play was centred West Cumbria Arts Engagement Evaluation to provide a play area with facilities for a wide and devised for the area by specialist immersive theatre Report. range of children and young people, including company, Coney following detailed research and a zipwire.” discussion in different communities, with five performances involving professional and community

12 13 Howgate and Distington North East Copeland Distington Club for Young People Phoenix Youth Project Distington Club for Young People Project: Core Costs for the Phoenix Youth Project

Grant Approved: April 2011 Grant Award: £17,000 (2 years) Grant Approved: November 2010 Grant Award: £60,000 (3 years) Project Cost: £80,200 Project Cost: £365,081 Grant Approved: February 2013 Grant Award: £45,000 (3 years) Project Cost: £149,600 Project: Core Staffing Costs for the Phoenix Youth Project

Distington Club for Young People has been Grant Approved: March 2014 Grant Award: £60,000 (3 years) in operation for nearly 70 years, serving and meeting the needs of the youth of the village Project Cost: £241,744 and surrounding areas. The Phoenix Youth Project delivers centre based, The club has had two grants from the Fund detached and outreach youth work sessions in to employ a Youth Development Officer to Cleator Moor, Frizington, Moor Row, Arlecdon and support young people to understand and Cleator; working with young people aged 8 - 19 act upon the personal, social and political years old. issues which affect their lives, the lives of The aim of this 3 year project was to support others and the communities of which they Phoenix Youth Project’s key youthwork activities are a part. with approximately 200 young people attending The club is open five nights a week and on a weekly basis. during school holidays and works with The organisation has since been awarded another young people from 4 to 25, offering a grant for a further 3 years which runs from April 1st variety of sessions and activities. 2015. Christine Pattinson, Youth Development There were a range of funders for the project which Officer for the Club, talks about some of included Children in Need, Northern Rock Foundation, the activities. Inspira and Home Group. “At the start of the summer programme we always hold a ‘Schools Out’ event which the young people come to after they have Impact finished school. It starts at 2pm and goes Impact Paul Rowe, Youth Development Officer and project A young person aged 19, from Cleator Moor said the onto 5pm this we call the start of our Young People have a long term relationship with the club. lead said “This funding has really helped us sustain and following about the support he gained from the club. summer. It is held on the Millennium Park develop our project over a very tough time funding wise. ‘I started Sellafield in mid-October 2013, and it was a big Nathan now aged 13 has been coming to the club from just we have bouncy castles, face painting, arts It has enabled us to continue making a real difference to change in my life, but it wasn’t at first how I imagined it, a few weeks old with his mam who is a Volunteer and has & crafts, entertainment, fire service, police, the children and young people of Cleator Moor, I wanted to quit by the end of the first week, and if I been for the last 15 years. Nathan always enjoys coming to animal care to name a few.” Frizington and Moor Row. I would like to say a big hadn’t spoken to Paul at PYP, I would have. Paul made the club to catch up with all his friends and he is now a Junior thank you to the Copeland Community Fund from me see sense but also supported me. I am reaping the “Every Christmas time we go carol singing Volunteer for the under 11 year’s group. Like Emily he helps to everyone at The Phoenix Youth Project.” reward of my hard work now as I have money in the bank in the local resident’s home and the church. work and plan activities and other events away from the club. and have just bought myself a new car, not only that Paul added “we have worked annually with 600-700 Then we hold a bigger event in the youth but my career is progressing well and I am thoroughly Emily aged 13 has been attending the club from 2 years old. different young people. These young people have club to celebrate the start of Christmas. enjoying my work” April 2014 Her mam is also a volunteer and continues to volunteer in developed, grew and learnt much over the three years. This is well attended by all age groups between work commitments. Emily likes coming as she is now Many still attend our project and those that have moved Local PCSO Alan Willison stated that ‘Phoenix Youth within the community” a Junior Volunteer for the under 11 years. She still comes on, many are in further education, employment or Project is both an essential part of the landscape of Other funding was secured from: Copeland along to the older group with her friends and helps to organise training. We also have our “rewards for action” Cleator Moor and the surrounding villages of Moor Homes, Cumbria County Council, Cumbria activities and events. scheme which supports young people’s learning Row and Frizington and a necessary tool in order to Community Foundation, Distington Parish Faith, aged 9: “I meet up with all my friends and we can have and development whilst instilling a work ethic and minimise youth anti-social behaviour. The project is encouraging young people to get involved in their excellently managed and always has been. I personally Council, Francis C Scott, Fundraising and a chat which is not something we can do so easily at school.” local community.” have witnessed the Project go from strength to strength, Inspira. Kai, aged 6: “I like to come here and do sports and run move locations, increase activity availability and benefit around.” a large proportion of the youngsters in the surrounding area” April 2015.

14 15 North East Copeland

Cleator Moor Town Council Home to Work

Project: Community Garden project Project: Skills for You

Grant Approved: December 2010 Grant Award: £7,005 Project 1 Grant Approved: April 2013 Grant Award: £45,000 (18 months) Project Cost: £39,404 Project Cost: £90,766

For a number of years, Cleator Moor Town Council Project 2 Grant Approved: February 2015 Grant Award: £49,500 (2 years) has had a growing list of people interested in Project Cost: £135,196 allotment gardening. In 2010 council members agreed to address this issue, by developing a Home to Work was established in 2001 to provide piece of waste ground adjacent to the current access to local employment opportunities and Impact allotment site at High Street. The project will provide unemployed people with work experience, Nikki Greenough, Project Co-ordinator, added provide additional growing space, new education and training. The Skills 4 You woodcraft “The success of the pilot project has been pathways and a community seating area. project was a pilot programme which aimed to outstanding. Partner agencies referred a diverse Cleator Moor Town Council also provided the support unemployed people in Copeland by offering group of clients to the project – all with different land and officer time to develop the project. NHS them practical experience in a workshop setting. support needs. Our target was 40 clients Cumbria gave permission for the Town Council to The 8 week course allows individuals to gain engaged and assisted in skills development, recycle a redundant fence around the proposed practical work experience in a suitable, bespoke of the 51 attendees we had a phenomenal new Clinic site, and West Coast Composting environment and address issues around personal 70% move onto a positive outcome. This donated 184 tonnes of recycled matter to enrich development and soft skills. The trainees are included employment, apprenticeships, the soil on site. encouraged and helped with learning opportunities, traineeships, full time training/education and Starting the project in February 2011, during some including short courses and basic skills leading to volunteering. We feel privileged to have been difficult weather conditions slowed the progress appropriate mainstream accredited courses. part of these journeys.” considerably. But improvements to the existing Sheila Moffatt, Project Manager said “We became “The pilot project finished in March, however, footpaths and the development of 22 new plots increasingly aware of the need to provide a we have been fortunate to be refunded through forged ahead. non-threatening local provision that encouraged CCF and supported by our other funders to those furthest from the labour market to engage deliver 2 further years of programmes – an Helen Gilmour, Cleator Moor Town Council and Impact Project Lead said “ The project has brought with skill development and job search activities. amazing achievement. We can now build on together a strong local partnership with the work Helen added “Since the initial opening of the One of our team described it as ‘getting people previous success and learning to make our offer being carried out by Cleator Moor based, Works new allotment area, the Community Garden from horizontal to vertical’. Significant research available to a wider audience within Copeland 4 You. The development of a community garden Association has won two awards in the RHS and discussions with partner organisations and by offering a choice of programmes that suits association, bulb planting with the local youth Britain in Bloom awards achieving a Level 4 others identified that a practical programme a broader range of individuals.” group and tree planting work with the assistance Thriving and a Level 5 Outstanding award. which provided substantial individual support of Copeland Borough Council and the Tree The project has created a vibrant space to identify and break down barriers to work was Council all took place. Cleator Moor Town Council where people can enjoy health activity and the way forward. Two years of development work provided a dedicated plot for Inspira’s young grow their own food. The allotment holders and funding applications later, the match funding people to manage, and also one for Blue Skies gather together sharing plants and growing from CCF allowed us to finally run the pilot provision. Community Support Group. All this helped to tips with each other and have worked collab- We now have a fully equipped workshop, a trainer, create a fully inclusive community project.” oratively to enhance the community space. a coordinator, an apprentice and a project assistant, The young people managing the Inspria plot Other Funding was provided by Cumbria Housing we are really proud of our achievements!” have also helped the Blue Skies group set up Partnership, Big Lottery Fund Awards for All, Home Other funding came from Home Internal Investment their plot and have worked on the communal Group, The Neighbourhood Forum with the Town Fund, Copeland Homes, Cumbria Community areas to help keep the footpaths clear. Council providing the initial funding to attract the Foundation (NMP Fund), Garfield Weston, Regen above match funding. North East Copeland and Home to Work’s own funds.

16 17 West Copeland West Copeland

Egremont Rangers Amateur Rugby League Football Club St. Bees Parish Council

Project: Gillfoot Park and Clubhouse Redevelopment Project: St. Bees Play Area

Development Grant Approved: September 2012 Grant Approved: February 2013 Grant Approved: April 2013 Grant Award: £30,250 Project Cost: £138,250

Grant Award: Phase 1 £88,559, Phase 1a £16,560, Phase 2 £43,000 St Bees has a large sandy beach which has previously been awarded Quality Project Cost: £445,464 Coast Awards. It is very popular with families from across West Cumbria and beyond who come to enjoy the beach and the walks on St Bees Head. Egremont Rangers needed to change their playing The Club also applied in September 2012 for a The existing play area at the beach had very limited play facilities as some items season to March to November thereby aligning to Copeland Community Fund Development Grant to of equipment had been dismantled, leaving only an old timbered ‘fort’ which other teams under the auspices of the Rugby Football enable them to undertake an energy audit.They were was reaching the end of its life and some swings and equipment designed for League within the UK. However this meant they were successful in getting a grant for £750. This enabled pre-school children. There was no equipment to challenge older children and unable to continue sharing the playing surface with the them to consider options for further energy poor drainage was also an issue. local Cricket Club and the pitch needed to be moved. improvement and potential for renewable The change of playing seasons meant the club could energy use. Other funding was provided by WREN, Copeland Borough Council, St. Bees Parish Council and Cumbria County Council. also be used more extensively with U8, 9, 11, 12, 14, The project received funding from Rugby 16 and two open age teams all using the same facility. Football League, Sport England, WREN, CWMET, The Club was keen to increase opportunities for rugby Home Group, Hartleys and also their own funds. Impact development and playing amongst these groups and Doug Sim, St. Bees Parish Council Chairman and Project Lead said “This is one increase the numbers of junior players continuing into of the most heavily used beaches in Cumbria, and it was just crying out for a the senior game, through engaging in constructive and Impact decent play area. CCF has enabled the Parish Council to address this situation healthy activities. John Brocklebank, Chair of Egremont for the benefit of the public.” It also meant that to continue its services to all Rangers said “The project has transformed the The project aimed to transform this area into an attractive, modern play facility community users the clubhouse desperately needed club and playing field. Our future is secured catering for children up to the age of 14 with a wide range of new play equipment. There would be a separate play area for the youngest children refurbishment. Income from the clubhouse being the with a clubhouse now capable of bringing in which would be fenced. Doug added “There has been a noticeable increase primary means to sustain the Club by providing new business and with first class changing in families visiting the beach. Everyone I speak to, from children to changing facilities, refreshment facilities and facilities. Local businesses are now using the grandparents accompanying them, is excited about this facility, which is a functions rooms and also to strengthen the facility and private party bookings have been very attractive one for children.” bonds between the Club and the local community. secured creating much needed revenue. At the opening of the field Jamie Reed (Copeland MP) For such a large project the Club decided that a was impressed with the new facilities and the St. Bees Priory Parochial Council phased approach was the most effective way to visiting team from Leeds said that this is one achieve all that needed to be done. of the best pitches in the country.” Project: Old College Hall Restoration Project The work included demolishing the existing stand, “We are very proud of the new facility and perimeter wall and floodlights, constructing a new we thank all our sponsor but especially CCF, playing surface and building a new viewing stand, Grant Approved: February 2012 without which we could never have delivered Impact fence and floodlights (Phase 1 and 1a). Phase 2 this project. A special thank you to Paula Grant Award: £59,290.17 included refurbishing the clubhouse and provision Ian McAndrew, Ratcliffe from CCF who helped us from the Project Cost: £165,537 of disabled access to pitch area and clubhouse. Priory Properties Manager and project leader said, start to the finish, she was inspirational, The project restored and renovated a Grade 1 “OCH is one of the finest medieval halls in Cumbria, but resilient and trustworthy throughout.” listed hall for use for music and drama because of water ingress due to a failing roof and plaster falls, rehearsal and performance, lectures and it had reached the stage where it could no longer be used. conferencing, arts exhibition and a permanent The work these grants funded has saved the hall and restored history display. The original building was it to its original splendour and to regular use.” Ian added the Priory chancel (13th century) which was “It is regularly used by Priory Singers and church choirs, both restored to be a lecture theatre for the as rehearsal and performance space, two village orchestras Theological College in the early nineteenth (junior and senior) which have been formed since the hall century. The project restored it to this latter became available, meeting place for church and community appearance and will bring back into use a events, wedding receptions, regular art exhibitions, as well as smaller performance venue. an assorted number of other events. The universal reaction Other funding was provided by English from those viewing the hall for the first time is one of unqualified admiration for the architecture and general Heritage, the Priory Fabric Fund, Friends appearance.” of the Priory, WREN and donations.

18 2119 Mid Copeland

Lake District National Park Authority Village Hall Project: Romans in Ravenglass Project: Hall Rejuvenation

Grant Approved: November 2012 Grant Approved: May 2014 Grant Award: £10,680 Project Cost: £27,960 Grant Award: £29,487 (2 years) Project Cost: £98,291 Santon Bridge Village Hall was in desperate need of an Madeleine Warren, Treasurer and Project Leader said upgraded heating system. Even on a reasonably warm “The committee were very conscious of the need to spring day the main room was so cold it got into your upgrade sooner rather than later as user numbers were bones and winter was even more uncomfortable. dropping. We had raised a good amount of funds over The Village Hall Committee fully investigated a range the last few years but not enough to undertake the of heating/insulation options and had selected which is project without additional help. However what we have the best value for the rural location (not being on mains achieved already is remarkable and is already making gas or having suitable enough electrical supply) and a difference”. the most user friendly. They also wanted the hall to be Other funding was provided by Lake District National fully accessible for all the community. Park Authority Community Fund, Cumbria Community Foundation, with Santon Parish Council, Cumbria County Council and own fundraising initiatives.

The project is a community based archaeological investigation focusing on understanding more about Impact the Roman Heritage of Ravenglass, including the Project Manager, Holly Beavitt-Pike from LDNPA said Fort, Bath House and Civilian Settlement (Vicus). “An additional programme of outreach was developed The work was to be carried out by volunteer groups and delivered at local primary schools and open days. including members of Parish Council, In order to promote this project to wider audience Ravenglass Village Forum, Local History groups, numerous events were also be held at various places Lake District National Park Archaeology Volunteer across Cumbria – including The Beacon Museum in Impact Service and wider volunteers within the Copeland Whitehaven. An on-site interpretation panel and a Since upgrading the heating system and Another big benefit is the simplicity of the controls area. An archaeological contractor was responsible leaflet will be produced as part of the project to insulation the Village Hall Committee have been of the new heating system, an important factor as for supervising the fieldwork and delivering training promote the heritage at Ravenglass. Films able to organise events over the winter months they can be easily explained to and operated by in fieldwork techniques. documenting the fieldwork can be viewed here. http://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/caringfor/volunteering/ with confidence that the temperature in the Hall the various groups who meet in the Hall. Santon Other funding was provided by the Heritage archaeologyvolunteers/rir will be comfortable for our users. A Christmas Bridge Village Hall is now easier to run and Lottery Fund and Historic England. Craft Fair and two shows have been held and altogether a much improved community asset. The Romans in Ravenglass archaeological project were well attended with good feedback about the was a great opportunity to explore the extent of a transformation. In addition keep fit classes started previously unexcavated civilian settlement, a vicus. in January - that would have been impossible with We knew about the Roman Bath House and the the previous heating system. Roman Fort but little was known about the extent of the vicus.

20 21 Mid Copeland South Copeland Gosforth Nursery Friends of Millom Station

Project: Gosforth Nursery New Build Project Project: Millom Station Land and Neighbourhood Environmental Improvement Plan Grant Approved: February 2011 Grant Award: £49,066 Project Cost: £396,566

Having used porta cabin buildings for a number Grant Approved: December 2011 Grant Award: £3,911 Project Cost: £7,822 of years to provide a nursery education for pre-school children those ‘temporary’ buildings were now at the end of their life and needed replacing with a purpose built permanent structure. Thus allowing Gosforth Nursery to continue to operate but also to extend the provision to include younger children and babies, and remain open throughout the year, a service which was much needed in the local community. The project was complete in June 2011 included a range of ‘green’ sources of energy, to make the Nursery ‘future proof’. These included the air source heating system, solar panels for hot water, photovoltaic tiles to generate electricity and all surface water to soak-away reducing the amount of foul water treatment required. Other funding was provided by Cumbria Community Foundation, Hadfield Trust, Cumbria County Council, AMEC and own fundraising. They also had a range of in-kind support from the nuclear industry with planning, design, project management, quality Friends of Millom Station formed in assurance and marketing. May 2009 and are committed, skilled, Impact experienced and hardworking volunteers Dorothy Williams, Project Leader and Secretary of FoMS said whose purpose is to promote and develop “This was a major project for our group, as in previous years Impact environmental improvements in the public we had just plodded along with small donations and grants to space which is clean, sustainable and help us with materials and equipment. We were encouraged Gillian Jackson, Nursery Manager said “by including green technology within the project we anticipated accessible with benefit to the wider to look at the bigger picture with the aim of turning a dream into savings on our electricity bills and am delighted to say this has most certainly happened.” community. a reality – and ensure we had the equipment for the longer term. She added, “The impact on the community and our organisation has been truly wonderful. The installation of The artwork along Millom Station is just marvellous and school The aim of the project was to introduce well the ‘green’ resources mentioned has enabled us to cover our electricity costs through the FIT (feed-in-tariff) children are incredibly proud of their efforts. They were not only designed landscape and public art with the programme. This obviously ‘frees up’ this money for purchasing additional resources for the children”. included in the creation of the mural but in the planting.” objective of enhancing community pride “We are all very excited about the most recent addition to our learning environment; Pine Lodge at the thereby improving both resident and visitor Dorothy added “the feedback has been very encouraging and bottom of our garden will provide opportunity to further enhance our outdoor provision offering the children experience that strengthen the capacity of we continue to maintain all that we sought to achieve at the station. Our presence at the station, tidying, weeding, painting opportunities to explore and investigate in the natural environment”. the community with the local schools and planting must encourage the locals because we receive so The nursery continues to go from strength to strength and currently has 80 pre-school children on roll, with and local heritage community involvement. many appreciative comments.” around 25 older children accessing out of school provision. Other funding was provided by NW Letter received by Northern Rail ‘’the transformation of the There are currently 16 employees including two apprentices working towards nationally recognised Evening Mail, CGP Millom, CCC surrounding by the volunteers who have been working on the qualifications. Neighbourhood Forum and Cumbria grounds is remarkable. The platforms have been vibrant The continuing commitment of the manager, staff and management committee makes Gosforth Nursery a Waste Management. with colour all spring and summer. The mural of students popular choice for families in the local community. The nursery can offer flexibility of care and education to work highlighting places of interest in the town, is an meet the diverse needs of working parents and is proud of its inclusive approach. Places for under 2’s exceptionally individual feature.” are particularly important for parents returning to work and there is a waiting list well into the future.

22 23 South Copeland

Millom Network Centre (MNC) Millom Town Council Project: Providing and Facilitating, Project: Millom Christmas Iluminations Business, Educational and Community Services Grant Approved: September 2011 Grant Award: £30,314 (5 years) Project Cost: £60,768 Grant Approved: February 2012 Grant Award: £180,000 (3 years) Project Cost: £571,016

The application to The Copeland Community Fund was MNC was to develop as an anchor organisation that to support core costs that would assist MNC to cover would support the development of local voluntary and the staff and maintenance costs whilst being able community organisations which in turn would improve to provide diverse, accessible and flexible business, the provision of and access to vocational training for educational and community services and facilities to young people in south Copeland. support the regeneration of south Copeland.

Impact Paul Stewart, Manager of Millom Network Centre said Over the last three years MNC has become a Growth “the funding has helped the organisation develop and Hub, Unit 3 has become an Employment Site and been able to provide pre-vocational and vocational MNC has developed exciting new partnership training for 16-24 year olds in their home town. Which opportunities with DWP and CP NHS Foundation has been very important to those young people. Also Trust which very promising for the future sustainability being able to recruit and train 70 volunteers, who of the Centre and its current services and the have assisted in the development and sustainability of development of new services. our local voluntary and community organisations has The facilitation of the Growth Hub at MNC in the last made a definite impact.” two years and the start of a new Women’s Rural Paul added “being able to support existing businesses Network Business Group from MNC has seen and support the development of new start businesses significant support for businesses and individuals has been really exciting and linking those local with numerous free workshops and advice support business with support agencies to improve the local from MNC. supply chain has been effective in that 60 business Joan Hobbs, project lead said, “The existing Millom Thanks to CCF, MNC has been able to support Impact have increase turnover and created 6 jobs”. numerous individuals with their learning and skills Christmas lights display was very poor and did not The Copeland Community Fund has been training and providing a link for the unemployed attract people to the town during the important time Millom Town Council have managed to brighten instrumental in the provision and development and the school leaver into further training and for trade. A small number of us took the initiative and the town without spending vast amounts of of lifelong learning and the development of a local employment. consulted with the local community on how they money. The new displays have encouraged enterprise culture through Millom Network Centre. Some quotes from tenants, learners and other would like to see the display developed. They had the some local businesses to make extra efforts CCF has supported a wide variety of services customers: opportunity to look at displays from other areas in the to attract shoppers and have had late night to continue over a three year period which has “Very friendly (adult education) group – good at country and have given feedback.” opening during the switch on events. The benefited many lives in direct and indirect ways. supporting each other.” Joan added “We now have new cross street displays, display also highlights the Christmas Tree As well as direct delivery by MNC staff and tutors and “From where I was to now is a complete 360, my festoons and motifs. The LED energy efficient lights are Festival held at St. George’s Church and informs use of facilities, the Centre has been able to host a confidence and self esteem has risen, I really mean now in a number of the trees and the infrastructure is in people of the activities and services over the number of agencies delivering in the south Copeland it when I say I want to thank them.” Christmas period. area that could not justify a full time presence or were place so we can continue to have illuminations in “Since coming to MNC, I have managed to conquer under cutback threats. Service organisations include; the future.” 2014 had Millom Amateur Dramatic Society a lifelong fear of mathematics and obtain a pass in Cumbria Police, Cumbria Partnership NHS members singing before the lights switch on Level 2. It also gave me confidence to pursue further Other funding was secured from: Copeland Borough and leading the carol singing at the crib Foundation Trust, Phoenix Enterprise Centre, PHX qualifications in English and Physiology at a higher Council, Millom Town Council and fundraising in Training, Speech After Stroke, Housing Support, Free level. The future is bright and hopefully I am now Millom. dedication, something enjoyed by the good Drop in Sessions with Employment Support, Adult ready to return to employment.” crowd who braved the awful weather. Education, Business Breakfast meetings, Growth Hub Townspeople do continue to be supportive “Millom Network Centre is the hub for many positive activity and much more. things that are happening in Millom for the benefit of and fundraising events throughout the year Millom people.” are well supported.

24 25 Community Development Support Development Grants

In addition to the regular grant application process, the Copeland Community Fund also offers development Volunteer Celebrations grants. These are aimed at helping organisations to more fully develop a project plan to allow progression For the fourth successive year Copeland Community to applying for funds for the full project. These grants of upto a £1,000 have been used by a variety of organisations to meet a variety of needs. Fund were pleased to support national volunteer week in 2014. Volunteer week celebrates the brilliant These have included help with business plans; energy audits, architectural drawings and support for 3rd party funding. The following case studies show how these small development grants can help a project progress. contribution made by millions of volunteers across the UK as well as inspiring other to get involved. Working with Cumbria CVS two events were held in Time To Change West Cumbria Calderwood House aims to be open for residents by the Copeland, one at Haverigg Lighthouse Centre and end of September 2015 and has a total project cost of – Calderwood House £439,542. one at Whitehaven Golf Club. Volunteers from a range of organisations were treated to food, entertainment Grant Approved: July 2013 Rachel Holliday, Time to Change Director and Project Lead said “I first went to speak to the staff at Copeland and awards. It was an opportunity to recognise Grant Award: £960 Community Fund as I had an idea of how to improve the important contribution volunteers make to This project intends to offer accommodation to the homelessness situation in Copeland. I’m so glad I organisations in Copeland. homeless people with a focus on ex-military personnel. did. I have received professional support / advice and The Copeland Community Fund are delighted to be The project will work in partnership with the Police & guidance. The initial development grant enabled me to able to support these celebration events because it is Crime Commissioner to convert the former police station develop my original business plan and this supported my in Egremont into 11 rooms of en-suite accommodation subsequent successful application, securing the funding the generosity of time and effort of volunteers that help Haverigg Volunteers staffed 24/7 which will also offer support training, I needed for the project to go ahead. I know I would not our communities thrive. education and health & well being services to residents. have been able to do this without the Copeland Community Fund support and encouragement. I would 2 Volunteer events In July 2013 Time to Change were successful in applying for a development grant to be used for developing their urge anyone who has an innovative idea of how to 182 volunteers celebrated existing business plan to support their full application. improve the area where we live, whatever it may be, to get in touch with the Copeland Community Team.” 38 volunteer organisations attended This was also subsequently approved in November 2014. Cumbria Wheelchair ACTion with Training with Sports Club Communities Grant Approved: November 2014 in Cumbria Whitehaven Volunteers Cumbria CVS Grant Award: £1,000 Grant Approved: This year the Fund continued to work CWSC have been running successful wheelchair October 2014 Copeland Community Fund Team with Cumbria CVS to provide training sports sessions in the area for several years and information to community groups in and thanks to a development grant from Copeland Grant Award: £1,000 The Copeland Community Copeland. Eight half day or evening courses Community Fund have recently been able to set up ACTion with Communities in Cumbria are a countywide Fund has a team of were offered across the Borough. These a satellite club in Whitehaven, at Mayfield School, community development organisation who work with local dedicated workers, a team courses were called “Writing Successful it has given the Club a foothold in the area, and communities on such issues as community led planning, leader, two development Applications” and “What You Need to Know allowed them to open it up to the whole community. project development and community buildings. They are workers and a grants officer. to Get the Money.” Sessions now run from Whitehaven Sports Centre particularly active in rural areas providing practical advice with around 12 regular players, who have picked up and support and delivering training. We are available to provide 69 individuals attended from 29 different your community group with the sport quickly. In October 2014 ACT were successful in applying for a organisations. development grant to be used for part funding a Copeland one to one support and Ray McBride, Trustee Cumbria Wheelchair Sports Community Buildings event to be held in February 2015 and advice on the Copeland In addition to these training courses the Club said “ It has given the players a pathway in Fund also supported the Cumbria CVS sport, we have seen a remarkable difference in them aimed at anyone involved with a village hall or community Community Fund. building. Funding Fair held at Energus in July. The in a short space of time.” We work with a wide range Julia Wilson, Development Manager for ACT said “The grant Funding Fair is a popular event that allows Ray added “we have found with our other clubs we were awarded gave us a great opportunity to get together of support agencies and organisations to speak directly to a large that we run, in some cases it has been life changing, village hall and community building volunteers from across partners and have regular where people were sat at home with nothing to do, number of Funders as well as attend training Copeland. In addition to the presentations and practical meetings with other it has provided some sessions or a variety of topics. workshops one of the benefits of the event was to give development workers purpose in their life, community building volunteers a chance to meet and swap Heather Askew, Team Leader for the Fund we also actively across Copeland. experiences. We’ve found that they can often learn as much said “These courses offer community groups encourage our from each other as they can from the speakers. By the end We can also help you develop your skills to apply for other the opportunity to build their skills and members to sources of funding, source business planning and governance volunteer, enrol of the event those who came along had learnt about making confidence to be able to apply for funding, their buildings more accessible for disabled people, how to advice too. not just to the Copeland Community Fund in college courses and support us make more effective grant application, had a chance to think For more information contact (01946) 598352 or visit us at but to a whole range of national funders about generating extra income for their building and had with fundraising.” www.copelandcommunityfund.co.uk as well.” discussed insurance and trustee liability.”

26 27 Grants Allocated

Theme Applicant Project Name Grant Locality Theme Applicant Project Name Grant Locality

Annual The Drigg Charity Annual Endowment £50,000 Mid Copeland Training North and West Cumbria Fisheries Local seafood and coastal £20,000 Whole Borough Endowment Employment & Local Action Group activities supply chain (loan) Social Enterprise development Arts, Culture & Herdwick Sheep Breeders Western Lake District Shows £25,390 Mid Copeland Sports Association Limited Marquees Phoenix Enterprise Centre Connecting Copeland’s £65,374 Whole Borough Digitally Excluded (CCoDE) Ravenglass Railway Museum Ravenglass Railway Museum - £47,800 Mid Copeland La’al Ratty Revival Inspira Cumbria Ltd COPELAND Wheels 2 Work £26,060 Whole Borough (W2W) Friends of Gosforth School GIG (Get Inspired Gosforth) £3,617 Mid Copeland Time to Change (West Cumbria) Calderwood House £167,202 West Number of grants: 3 Value of grants £76,807 Project CIC Copeland Ennerdale Hub Limited The Ennerdale Centre £45,000 North East Community Action Environment Agency Egremont Flood Alleviation £600,000 West Copeland Copeland Scheme (in principle agreement) Home to Work Ltd Skills 4 You £49,500 North East Copeland Copeland Citizens Advice Bureau Copeland CAB Volunteer £46,771 Whole Borough Support Teams Number of grants: 6 Value of grants: £373,136

Number of grants: 2 Value of grants £646,771 Youth Activity Inspira Cumbria Ltd Raising Aspirations- WoW £24,922 Whole Borough Factor Improvements to Santon Bridge Village Hall Santon Bridge Village Hall £10,680 Mid Copeland Built Environment Hall Rejuvenation Shackles Off Youth Work staffing costs for £36,306 Mid Copeland Borough Council Beacon Museum Development £400,000 Whole Borough Shackles Off Copeland

Environment Frizington White Star Football Club Frizington White Star Football £25,452 North East Whitehaven Harbour Youth Project Personal Development of £150,000 Whitehaven & Sustainbility Club Clubhouse Refurbishment Copeland Young People

Number of grants: 3 Value of grants: £436,132 Number of grants: 3 Value of grants: £211,228

Quality Open Whitehaven Locality Partnership Whitehaven Lengthsman £18,000 Whitehaven Spaces Scheme Total Number of grants: 22 Total Value of grants: : £1,914,580

Boot River Access Group Access Improvements around £27,500 Mid Copeland Note: These were the grants allocated during the year 14-15, as at 31 March 2015. the River Esk in the Village Subsequent changes to projects can lead to changes in final grants paid. of Boot

Regen NE Copeland Ltd Community Lengthsmen £36,756 North East Initiative Copeland

Friends of Kie Park Kie Park - skate and BMX £38,250 Whitehaven facility

Number of grants: 4 Value of grants: £120,506

28 29 Financial Information

Value of funding allocated by locality 2014-2015 Value of funding allocated by locality 2010-2015

Match Funding 158,549

As part of the operational strategy Copeland Community Fund aims to maximise funding 201,293 788,094

Howgate and Distington brought into Copeland. To achieve this we ask projects to apply to others funders, both Mid Copeland 877,777 156,708 583,127 local and national to support their projects. Projects achieve this match funding from Mid Copeland North East Copeland 4,419,200 900,009 a variety of sources, including their own fundraising efforts and earned income. North East Copeland Over the past five years the fund has invested nearly £11 million in grants in Copeland. West Copeland South Copeland 1,672,912 West Copeland This in turn has bought an additional £24 million of match funding into the area. Whitehaven 206,250 767,202 For every £1 invested by Copeland Community Fund a further £2.22 is spent on projects. Whitehaven Whole Borough 2,110,897 Whole Borough Grant Summary 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013 2013-2014 2014-2015 Total Value of Grants £1,063,334 £2,477,831 £4,348,250 £1,123,443 £1,914,580 £10,927,437 Value of funding allocated by theme 2014-2015 Allocated 50,000

Value of Match £2,599,028 £5,774,635 £7,590,984 £2,148,256 £6,172,354 £24,285,257 76,807

211,228 Funding Arts, Culture & Sports

Total £3,662,361 £8,252,465 £11,939,234 £3,271,699 £8,086,934 £35,212,694 Community Action

Project Cost Improvements to Built Environment 646,771 Number of 19 59 50 28 22 178 373,136 Quality Open Spaces Grants Training, Employment & Social Enterprise Youth Activity

120,506 Local and National Funders have included: Drigg & Carleton Annual Endowment Nb. The theme headings were updated in 2014, l Arts Council 436,132 therefore it is not possible to show a cumulative l Big Lottery funding allocated by theme.

l Britain’s Energy Coast l Children In Need l CN Group Summary of Financial information l Coalfields Regeneration Trust Income l Co-op Community Fund l Cumbria Community Foundation (Including the NMP Fund) NDA Payment £1,500,000 l Cumbria County Council – through the Copeland Local Area Committee Interest Received £110,575 l Cumbria Waste Management Environment Trust Loan Repayment £51,050 l Foyle Foundation £1,661,625 l Francis C. Scott Charitable Trust l Garfield Weston Foundation Expenditure l Hadfield Charitable Trust Board Expenditure £1,107 l Heritage Lottery Fund Management Costs £222,017 l Home Group l Lake District National Park Enabling Fund £13,218 l Lloyds TSB Foundation £236,342 l National Trust Grant Commitments l North and West Cumbria Fisheries Local Action Group l Northern Rock Foundation Grants approved in 2014/15 £1,914,580 l Rural Development Programme for England l Sellafield Snowball Fund Grants from Copeland Community Fund are paid in stages depending on the length of the project. l Sport England In the financial year 2014/15 £1,836,157 was paid out in grants instalments. l Sport Specific Bodies The closing cash balance of the Fund at the 31st March 2015 was £12,922,602 but the available balance l Town and Parish Councils was £7,911,319. The difference arising is due to future grant instalments (on previously agreed grants) l WREN and outstanding costs relating to the year 2014/15.

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