Community groups across Glasgow urged to pitch for local funding

Community groups and residents from across the city are being invited to identify projects which can make a real difference to the place they live. More than £91,000 has been made available through the Glasgow Community Planning Partnership for projects across the city. Community groups will decide on which priorities the cash should be invested in at a number of local meetings scheduled to take place in January.

Councillor Soryia Siddique, Chair of the Glasgow Community Planning Partnership, said: "We're working hard to ensure that communities have a strong voice in deciding where resources should be spent. The people who work with us know and love the areas that they live in - and crucially know what will make a real difference to people's lives. Our role is to work with them, identify priorities and work together to achieve the best outcome."

The communities where the money will be spent include, Canal, Southside Central, Govan, Langside, Newlands/Auldburn, East Centre and North East. The criteria for applications focus on projects which often help vulnerable people, improve the environment or help deal with community safety and security, as well as improving youth employment and tackling issues around alcohol abuse. Communities also deal with other issues of importance to them and the funds can also help deal with 'emerging issues', which may cause more substantial problems in a community in future, if not tackled now.

Cllr Siddique, added: "Glasgow City Council has been leading the way in devolving decision making on funding decisions and this marks another step in our efforts to provide true community empowerment. Local knowledge is key in terms of addressing any problems within our communities."

For details on the funding available and how to apply for support go to www.glasgowcpp.org.uk/communitybudgeting