Following straight on from their Funders Fayre session this week, Falkirk Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) has launched their new Health Inequalities and Wellbeing Fund, with more than £772,000 available to support local projects in Falkirk which tackle health and social inequalities.

With funding available for the next 2 years, third sector organisations, community groups, and statutory bodies can apply for a maximum of £25,000 per year.

Falkirk HSCP is looking to fund projects which take creative approaches to addressing health inequalities and improving the wellbeing of people in Falkirk. Applications for projects engaging with communities which may be less likely to access local services are encouraged.

It is hoped that funding will be used to improve poor health outcomes within disadvantaged areas, and that projects will tackle a range of issues, such as:

improving the physical and mental health and wellbeing of people in Falkirk
supporting vulnerable people to access help and care, particularly people who have been adversely affected by COVID-19
enabling people who provide care for family members or loved ones to take a break from their caring role
helping people to continue living in their own home and communities – whether that is through supporting the hospital discharge process, rehabilitation programmes, or general household support

Patricia Cassidy, Chief Officer, Falkirk Health and Social Care Partnership said:

“Our colleagues in the third and voluntary sector deliver a vast range of care and support. Their efforts and innovative approach have always been valued by the people who access their support, but even more so during the pandemic.

“The launch of the Partnership’s new Health Inequalities and Wellbeing Fund will support local organisations to further development their services and support options, ultimately enriching the lives of people within our communities.”

Victoria McRae, Chief Executive Officer, CVS Falkirk added:

“Falkirk’s charities, social enterprises, and community groups have a strong history delivering projects which are making a lasting, valued, difference to the communities of Falkirk. I look forward to seeing the ideas and new services which flourish from this funding

“We know how creative the third sector can be, making them best placed to know what’s needed in our local communities. This was true before the pandemic, but especially now, where we’ve all seen the impact on local people’s health and wellbeing, and the inequalities that already existed.”

There will be 2 rounds of funding, with the first deadline closing on Friday 15^th April. A later application date is set for Friday 17^th June.

For further information on the new Health Inequalities and Wellbeing Fund, including how to apply, please visit the Falkirk HSCP website.