Calico Homes has relaunched its Community Choice initiative and is urging more local groups to come forward with ideas that could benefit neighbourhoods across Burnley.
The scheme, which gives customers the power to decide which community projects receive £5,000 of funding, is once again open for applications.
Community Choice is designed to support projects that improve physical or mental health, enhance education and skills, revitalise outdoor spaces, or promote environmental activity. To be eligible, initiatives must offer clear benefits to the wider community and be low or no cost for the people who use them.
Both new and established groups are welcome to apply, and individuals can also submit proposals.
Customers will ultimately have the final say, with all Calico Homes customers able to vote for the ideas they believe will have the greatest impact locally. Once voting closes, the projects with the most support will be funded through Calico’s community budget.
Once decided, the Community Investment Team will work alongside applicants throughout the process, helping connect them with the right partners to bring their ideas to life.
Speaking on the initiative and the positive effect it has on Burnley, Emmy Dickinson, Customer Engagement Officer, said: “There are so many brilliant groups out there doing great work in their neighbourhoods, but some still don’t realise that this fund is genuinely for them. You don’t need to be a formal organisation or have a long track record, and you definitely don’t need a perfectly polished application.
“What matters most is that you’ve spotted something your community needs, and you’ve got the passion to do something about it. We really want people to know Community Choice isn’t about being big or impressive on paper. It’s about ideas which bring people together, create a sense of connection, or simply make everyday life that bit better. If you’ve ever thought, ‘we could do more with just a little bit of support,’ then this fund was designed with you in mind.”
To apply, forms can be completed by the group itself or by someone applying on their behalf and can be emailed directly to Calico Homes or dropped off at reception. To complete the forms online, click here. Further information about the scheme and the categories of funding is available on the Calico Homes website.
Community groups interested in applying can request more details or submit their completed forms by emailing customers@calicohomes.org.uk.