Pobl Teams Access Funding to Support Wales’ Most Vulnerable
Pobl colleagues have been actively seeking out new ways to support clients during lockdown, with a particular emphasis on taking advantage of funding streams being made available locally.
Welsh Government moved swiftly to announced a number of measures aimed at supporting organisations through the coronavirus pandemic while many community foundations and other organisations have launched funding programmes to assist local organisations in responding to the current challenges.
As part of Pobl’s response to the situation, our teams have been able to access some of this funding as colleagues strive to make a real difference in the communities where they work.
Funding for Domestic Abuse Victims and their Children
On 27th March, The Welsh Government announced an initial fund of £24 million to support Wales’ most vulnerable in response to the Coronavirus pandemic, followed by a further £15 million to ensure people in Wales who are shielding at home are able to get direct deliveries of food and other essential items to their door.
Pobl teams across Mid and West Wales who help victims of domestic abuse, have been awarded more than £1,500 through the Welsh Government Covid-19 Capital Funding. The money will be spent on additional IT equipment to enable clients to communicate more safely with frontline colleagues and, where necessary, emergency services. Funds were also requested to purchase a range of indoor and outdoor play and craft materials for children of all ages to help pass the time in a healthy and positive way.
When deciding what to buy, there are a range of factors to consider and regrettably, there are a number of families who would benefit from donations but are currently unable to receive them due to the perpetrator residing within the home. Teams will consider the ages of the children, the family dynamics and any abusive traits or triggers when making their decision.
Some items have already been delivered and are making a massive difference to clients and their children already, including a new laptop for 14-year-old twin sisters who are currently unable to attend school.
This means they are not missing out and are able to continue their education while at home.
Hales House Access The National Lottery Community Fund
Money, raised by National Lottery players is distributed by The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest funder of community activity in the UK.
Charities and community groups across the UK have received almost £120million of National Lottery funding since the COVID-19 lockdown began.
Our colleagues and young people in Hales House decided to submit their application too and were successful in securing £2200 in funding their project called “Looking after Our Home”. It focuses on brightening up their accommodation by painting and decorating, as well as maintaining the grounds and garden, with a special focus on a sensory area in the garden.
Restrictions and social distancing have put extra pressure on the positive wellbeing of the young people at Hales House. Having access to enjoyable activities provides a distraction and lifts moods, keeping their minds occupied. The funding for this project helps to create a sense of ownership, community spirit and sense of solidarity among the community at Hales House.
