The government has made Community Investment Funding available to communities who participate in the siting process for a GDF:
Community Investment Funding supports three areas of development, each designed to create lasting positive change in participating communities.
For example, employment opportunities, job creation, skills development, education or training, promotion of local enterprise, long-term economic development or economic diversification.
Including cultural and natural heritage, especially where economic benefits, for example through tourism, can be demonstrated.
For example, improvements to community facilities, enhancement of the quality of life or health and well-being of the community.
Community Investment Funding has been used to fund a variety of projects from revamping play areas and village halls, to funding IT equipment and health and wellbeing services.
Some of the projects funded over the years include:
Almost 50 people attended Mid Copeland GDF Community Partnership events recently to learn more about how to apply for Community Investment Funding from the Geological Disposal Facility (GDF) programme. Held in Beckermet and Gosforth, the events also offered a chance to meet other local people who had successfully applied for funding and provided new facilities […]
A total of 27 grant awards totalling £1million were made to local organisations during the second year that Mid Copeland GDF Community Partnership has been part of the Geological Disposal Facility programme. This means the Community Partnership has now awarded £2million in two years to a variety of local projects as discussions progress around what […]
A LIFE-SAVING team has been able to purchase a frontline emergency vehicle following funding from the Mid Copeland GDF Community Partnership. Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team (WMRT) was awarded £75,497 in the first year of funding as part of the GDF programme and now the new rescue vehicle has been fully kitted out with blue lights, […]
The funding programme welcomes applications from a diverse range of organisations, including community groups, public sector bodies, and businesses. Every project must demonstrate clear benefits for the community within the Search Area.
Organisations may also apply in partnership but would require one organisation to act as lead organisation for the partnership and ‘accountable body’ for the funding.
If you are an unconstituted organisation it might be possible for another organisation to apply for funding on your behalf.
Individuals may not apply for funding for their own personal use.
The distribution of funding follows clear principles to ensure fairness and effectiveness. As Search Areas may evolve during the siting process, the funding coverage adjusts accordingly, ensuring all included communities can benefit from the investment opportunity.
Head to our application page to find out how to apply and begin your application.