You Decide! Grant funding for Folkestone West

10.40.25am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 12th Oct 2009

New Lib Dem County Councillor Tim Prater is the first in Folkestone to give power direct to local residents to decide on which projects they want to see backed with £15,000 of grant funding.

The "You Decide" initiative invites local people to vote for the projects they think will most benefit the area. All residents from Folkestone West division - covering Cheriton, Morehall and Sandgate - are invited to come along to the "You Decide" day on Saturday 7th November at the Tower Theatre on North Road, Sandgate to choose the winners of the grants on offer.

Any local voluntary or community group can apply - as long as the project will benefit the Folkestone West area. Sports, community, support, residents association projects and more can apply - and local residents directly decide which gets the support!

Tim Prater said:

"This is the first time in Folkestone that Kent County Council division grants have been decided by local residents. It's not my money - it's OUR money. Local people should decide how its spent.

"Any Folkestone West resident can come along, listen to the projects and decide which that want to vote for. The ones that get the most votes will get the grant they were looking for - it's as simple as that!"

Local community or voluntary groups can bid for a grant between £250 and £2,000 for projects that will add benefit Folkestone West. Projects should not replace services that should be provided through mainstream budgets. These groups must be not for profit and have a bank account.

You will need to apply fast - applications must be in by 30th October - but the form is short and easy to complete. You can get a form by emailing David Geoghegan, KCC Community Liaison Manager at david.geoghegan@kent.gov.uk or on 01622 696297 or mobile 07786 191667.

At least one member of applying groups must attend the "You Decide" day and present their proposal (in no more than three minutes!) to local residents who will vote on your project. Groups can bring along their own supporters too to listen and vote on the day.

"You Decide" will take part on Saturday 7th November event at the Tower Theatre Folkestone, North Road, Shorncliffe from 1.00pm to 4.00pm. Lunch will be provided! All Folkestone West residents are welcome to attend, and any resident over 11 years of age can have their vote on the projects they want to see.

Related Link:

Download a "You Decide Project Application Form 2009".