A few brilliant local projects have been shortlisted for ITV People’s Projects funding. As the local MP, it’s difficult for me to pick one project over another, but I would love it if one of the amazing local organisations in the running is successful. To win the funding it comes down to votes, so I’m hoping my blog will help to draw attention to the incredible work those in the running do, and just what the funding would mean to them.
Voting is open now, and ends at noon on the Monday the 3rd April. Whilst I’ll leave the difficult voting decision up to you, it’s clear that all of the local projects and initiatives competing for the funding, significantly improve the lives of people in the local community – so taking a few moments to cast your vote would be hugely appreciated.
People can vote for one project in EACH region across the UK, which means that it is possible to vote for one local project in both the Meridian East and Meridian West categories.
Brighton and Hove Surplus Food Network – this newly established network is made up of some incredible local organisations who do amazing work in Brighton and Hove tackling food waste. Like the Real Junk Food Project, who redistribute food destined for landfill, turning it into meals on a ‘pay as you feel’ basis. With the increase in homelessness being such a visible reality on the city’s streets, and with so many families having to make difficult choices in order to put food on the table, redirecting food so it can be accessed by people who might otherwise go hungry is essential. The funding will allow Brighton and Hove Surplus Food Network, along with the Brighton and Hove Food Partnership, Junk Food Project and The Food Waste Collective to increase their capacity to redistribute surplus food across the city, as well as raise awareness of the issue.
https://www.thepeoplesprojects.org.uk/projects/view/surplus-food-network
The Woodland Project – run by Circle of Life Rediscovery and Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, the project works with families in Sussex who have a child with severe physical or learning difficulties, where the child may self-harm to manage stress, have little sleep, be non-verbal and often find it difficult to be in public; as well as supporting teenagers with mental health issues. They offer woodland days out for families, and teenagers – giving them important time and space in a safe environment – free from judgement, and the stresses that can be compounded by home-life.
https://www.thepeoplesprojects.org.uk/projects/view/the-woodland-project
Creative Connections – run by Octopus Inc, is a project that works with children and their families in East Sussex, including Brighton and Hove. Their programme of creative activities is free of charge, and designed to stimulate brain development, co-ordination, speech and language, as well as boosting parental confidence and engagement. The funding will enable them to run a year-long programme of activities and reach more children and families as a result.
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