Bradford Council’s Public Health team has announced the launch of a new Mental Wellbeing grant scheme aimed at enhancing the mental wellbeing of individuals residing in the district. The scheme, which is funded by the council, aims to support innovative projects tailored towards adults aged 18 and above.
Extensive research suggests that there are five key ways to improve mental wellbeing: connecting with others, engaging in physical activity, acquiring new skills, contributing to others, and practising mindfulness by being present in the moment. In addition, green spaces, including parks, forests, and urban green areas, have been scientifically proven to have a positive impact on overall mental health, quality of life, and subjective well-being, according to the World Health Organisation.
The Mental Wellbeing Grants will prioritize funding for initiatives that enable individuals in the priority groups to engage with one or more of the aforementioned five ways of wellbeing, as well as gain access to green spaces. Grant amounts ranging from £500 to £10,000 are available to support projects throughout the Bradford District.
Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Healthy People and Places, expressed her enthusiasm for the grant scheme, stating, “This is a great opportunity for groups to come forward and take advantage of this grant funding to make a difference and provide the support needed to improve mental health. We require more locally-based initiatives deeply rooted in the heart of local communities, fostering an environment where people feel happy and safe to connect.”
Priority will be given to projects aiming to enhance the mental wellbeing of adults in specific groups. This includes adults lacking support, particularly those facing a higher risk of poor wellbeing outcomes and those with low incomes. Additionally, individuals aged 18 and above who have been in care or have a background of being looked after at any point in their lives, as well as adults dealing with long-term conditions, bereavement, relationship problems, or addiction issues, will be given priority. Furthermore, other populations such as middle-aged men, BAME communities, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and individuals seeking asylum, who may experience poorer mental health outcomes and encounter additional barriers to support, will also be prioritized.
Interested applicants are required to submit their proposals by 12 noon on Friday, June 16, 2023. Further details and application forms can be found on the website www.cnet.org.uk/projects/grants or by contacting grants@cnet.org.uk via email.
The Mental Wellbeing grant scheme provides a valuable opportunity for community groups and organizations to contribute to the improvement of mental health within the district, ultimately creating a more resilient and supportive environment for all individuals.
