Community Focus

Funding for the future

Voluntary and Community groups are set to be given a boost if the recommendations in the latest Hull City Council Scrutiny report get the go-ahead.

Major changes would give groups a clear and fair way to make applications for funding and get a speedy reply. Also, straightforward checking systems would let the Council see how the money was used.

The biggest change would be an Advice Service for groups needing funding. Experts in the proposed new Council Customer Service Centres would also be available to help groups find the funding they need.

The Scrutiny panel invited voluntary and community groups to a workshop at the Guildhall and a large survey was carried out with the help of Hull Council for Voluntary Service, Hull Community Network and the North Bank Forum.

Councillor Sean Chaytor, Chair of the Scrutiny panel, praised the contributions made by these organisations and everyone who gave evidence to the member panel. "Our recommendations were made following a thorough review of existing arrangements. We are confident that they will make a significant difference to all voluntary and community groups in the city," he said.

If you would like to read Scrutiny's report into the Council's Funding of Voluntary and Community Organisations visit our website at www.hullcc.gov.uk/scrutiny/reports.php or contact Shaun Thompson on tel. (01482) 613124.