Julia Lopez MP is encouraging local community groups to apply for an excellent funding opportunity to improve green spaces locally through the Bupa Green Community Grants Fund. For schools, charities and not-for-profit organisations, grants are available to support practical community projects. More information on example projects and the application process can be viewed here – https://www.groundwork.org.uk/bupa-foundation-green-grants/

With over 100 projects funded across the UK, the Green Community Grants Fund hopes to provide local communities with the means to improve their green spaces. Grants are available between £250-£2,500 and applications must be submitted by 30 June.

If you are interested in improving your local green spaces, then apply using the link above. Please do let Mrs Lopez know if you have submitted an application, as Mrs Lopez will be proud to support local organisations, charities and organisations with a supporting letter.

In February, Mrs Lopez wrote to a number of local community organisations to advise that the Lower Thames Crossing was inviting applications for grants of up to £10,000 via its Community Fund to promote the use of open space, improve the accessibility of green spaces and to help communities to access the jobs and careers the project will support during construction and beyond. Julia wrote to a number of organisations, including friends groups of all local parks, with objectives similar to the Community Fund’s to encourage them to apply but also to inform them of their bid so that they may support this.

The Lower Thames Crossing recently announced that the Friends of Dagnam Park group is among the 40 projects North of the Thames have been awarded £165,000 via the Community Fund. The full list of local organisations benefitting from this funding includes:

• The Havering Volunteer Centre – To support volunteer recruitment and emergency food provision
• Havering Green Streets – To improve green spaces in Cranham and support communal activities
• Communi-Tea Circle – To reduce loneliness and expand the support provided to older people in Upminster through afternoon teas
• Friends of Dagnam Park – To assist in maintenance and conservation works
• Springfield Playgroup – To purchase a mini climbing wall for a preschool group
• Tapestry Care – A project for people with dementia to engage in walking sessions across Upminster, Cranham and Harold Wood