CHASCT
Congleton Hydro & Solar Community Trust
Applications open on 31st May 2024
Community Grants
Who gives money away then? We do.
‘The Congleton Hydro & Solar Community Trust.’
Who do we give it to?
You, if you are perhaps a ‘green champion’, budding engineer, scientist, environmentalist or just someone with a really helpful solution to solve a green or an educational problem. Each year we provide a sum of money to support such projects.
Come on what’s stopping you from applying? Nothing ventured nothing gained.
So, do you wish to further your project? And all you are lacking is just a small amount of funding. Now there’s a good reason to apply as we can help, you never know it might see you achieve your goal.
No project is too small. Applications for grants are welcome from all, especially young people with an idea or a project with the young involved.
Don’t be shy read on and find out why you should apply.
What are the guidelines?
- Your proposal could be to aid the understanding of what is happening to the Environment and how we can protect it, with a view to hopefully improving it.
- Your proposal could be to popularise the understanding of Renewable and Green Energy, and of course to lead by example.
- Your proposal could be about sustainability what it is and how can we encourage it. At the same time, again, leading by example.
- Your proposal could advance the meaning of citizenship or some community development in relation to the environment.
- All of the above guidelines should include the use of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, but most of all it should have the enthusiasm and commitment of the its members.
£5000 + for Community Projects
One of the aims of the Congleton Hydro Scheme and the future Solar Community Scheme is to generate monies (approx. £5K per year each) to stimulate interest in the core values and educational foundations of the whole project: the importance of the Environment and its Sustainability, especially it’s underpinning by the core subjects of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, otherwise known as STEM.
To achieve this aim a separate administrative charity has been created “The Congleton Hydro and Solar Community Trust (CHASCT). The monies allocated for the community from the Hydro & Solar Scheme will be transferred to CHASCT.
A grants panel has been set up, for 2024 applications the amount to distribute totals £5000. Each year at the Congleton Hydro AGM, (typically in April) an amount is approved by the shareholders to donate to community projects.
CHASCT AIMS:
Environment & Sustainbility
To promote and encourage interest in sustainability and the environment, CHASCT will be awarding payments to community projects which have a basis in these subjects.
Inspire the next generation
CHASCT will be inviting applications for funding (with funds from Congleton Hydro). Anyone or any group may apply but it is hoped that young people will be inspired with an idea for a project.
Improve the Community
Conserve or improve the natural environment for the benefit of the people in the local area.
How do I apply for a grant?
You can apply online for a grant, fill in the form and submit it. A copy of your application will be emailed to you.
Alternatively, you can download a Word document of the application form, fill it in and email it to: communitygrants@congletonhydro.co.uk
Applications will open on 31st May 2024
What size of grant is available?
The total fund for 2024 stands at £5000.
We aim to try and help as many groups as possible so please bear this in mind with regards to your application.
The maximum grant you can officially apply for is £2000 but it is expected that grant awards would be lower than this.
Who can apply for a grant?
We welcome applications from schools, community groups, businesses, and charity organisations.
Applications will only be considered when made on a formal application form with all relevant sections completed.
How will you process applications?
The closing date for applications is the 30th June 2024. All applications received by the Secretary will be sent to the Trustees, and a meeting will take place within 3 weeks of the closing date.
Assessment Criteria
Applications are assessed against the following needs:
- How the project meets the ideals of the Trust
- How much the organisation/individual has worked to raise their own funds towards the project?
- How the project ensures that by awarding a grant, the Trust is behaving in the best interest of the charity and community.
Successful applicants will be informed via email and BACS details will be requested to forward payment.
Should the Trustees support the application but feel they need further information the applicant will be informed and the grant will be re-submitted to the next meeting of Trustees.
What happens if my project is cancelled?
If for any reason your project does not go ahead, your agreement to return all monies the Trust has donated is confirmed by your signature on the application form.
Reports and Monitoring
The Trust needs to ensure that the money it spends is used effectively, achieving value for money and in the way intended. This includes monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of its grant funding. The monitoring form should be returned at the end of the project along with feedback from the project if appropriate and any photographs.
Climate Change Emergency, We Must Fight On!
Climate change is impacting human lives and health in a variety of ways. It threatens the essential ingredients of good health – clean air, safe drinking water, nutritious food supply, and safe shelter.
Congleton Hydro may be a small project but it’s a small step in the right direction of a global problem that will affect everyone!
Climate Change Emergency
Our Partners & Sponsors
Get In Touch
Dane Valley Community Energy Ltd is a Community Benefit Society registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA - Registration Number 7142) as defined by the Cooperatives and Community Benefit Societies Act, 2014 and governed by rules which can be viewed HERE.