The first round of Newark and Sherwood District Council’s 2024-25 Community Grant Scheme saw 16 groups benefit from funding – supporting a wide range of community projects across the district — and the applications can now be made for further help.

Groups that received funding included a Community Fishing Project called Mending Lines, which encourages people of all ages, but particularly young people, to get outside with nature and take up fishing.

With a focus on community and mental health, this small local group is transforming lives. The group works with the police and safeguarding team alongside local schools, young people who are homeschooled, adults and people with mental health conditions to help tackle anti-social behaviour and improve health and wellbeing.

The Urban Worm CIC als received funding, allowing it to offer three days of wormery workshops over the 2025 Easter half term at three sites in the district — Sconce and Devon Park, Newark; Vicar Water Country Park, Clipstone; and Ollerton.

Earlier this year it held similar workshops across the district.

Information about how to sign up for workshops will be available nearer the time, go to https://theurbanworm.co.uk

Funding for materials to help groups run more smoothly and cost effectively or to improve the offering for its users is also a popular request through the scheme.

Winthorpe Allotment Association will use its award for materials to build a community shelter to keep surplus grown produce dry, which can then be donated through the crop drop scheme to local food banks.

The shelter will also be used for growers to meet in, keep dry and be able to get a hot drink.

The second round of the Community Grant Scheme is now open for applications, go to www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/communityfunding

Coun Paul Taylor, portfolio holder for Public Protection and Community Relations at the council, said: “The applications received for the first round of funding showcased some of the truly transformative projects happening across our district and we are delighted to help these groups and charities continue to reach more residents, improving the lives of everyone who attends.

“The people who run these groups are dedicated and passionate and that has been demonstrated in abundance when I’ve gone to meet them to present their funding.”