Colchester City Council’s Cultural and Creative Events Fund returns for 2024, focusing on health, wellbeing and inclusivity

PUBLISHED: 5 January 2024


Following the success of the 2023 Cultural and Creative Events Fund, which supported 26 diverse projects from major festivals to opportunities for residents to learn new creative skills, Colchester City Council is pleased to announce a further round of funding for 2024. In partnership with the North East Essex Health and Wellbeing Alliance, the Fund aims to continue supporting vibrant and inclusive cultural events and activity across the City of Colchester.

Applications for the Cultural and Creative Events Fund 2024 are now open, offering grants ranging from £250 to £1500 for projects taking place between 1 May 2024 and 30 April 2025. The Fund, totalling £30,000, seeks projects that align with at least three of the following criteria:
  • Deliver a high-quality cultural or creative experience to local audiences
  • Develop or showcase local creative talent
  • Celebrate, explore, and raise awareness of local heritage
  • Encourage visitors to the City of Colchester
  • Celebrate our diverse communities
In addition, projects must explicitly demonstrate how they contribute to the health and wellbeing of residents, with special consideration given to those providing cultural opportunities for older people. This requirement is in recognition of the potential of arts and culture to contribute to the reduction of health inequalities.

Applications must be submitted online through the Colchester City Council website at www.colchester.gov.uk/cultural-creative-events-fund. The deadline for submissions is 5 February 2024.

Cllr Burrows, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Heritage, said: "The Cultural and Creative Events Fund continues to deliver on the City’s Cultural Strategy, supporting our creative sector, nurturing local talent and celebrating our communities. Together with our partner, the North East Essex Health and Wellbeing Alliance, we are eager to support innovative projects that not only showcase the arts and heritage in Colchester but also contribute to the health and wellbeing of our residents. This fund is a testament to our commitment to building a culturally rich and inclusive city for all."

Laura Taylor-Green, Director of the North East Essex Health and Wellbeing Alliance, said: “I am delighted that this fund is once again available offering grants for projects which support local people’s health and wellbeing. Within the alliance, we have seen first-hand the significant and positive contribution that arts and culture can have on people’s self-esteem, especially since the pandemic. This fund also strongly fits in with our agenda of reducing health inequalities so I would encourage local people to consider how they could bid for this money to support their work.”

Successful applicants will be notified after the 1 March. Funding applications will be welcomed from registered charities, constituted voluntary and community organisations as well as not-for-profit groups.
 

Page last reviewed: 5 January 2024

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