Community Groups Encouraged to Apply To Wind Farm Fund

29th January 2014

Community groups and charities serving those within Latheron, Lybster and Clyth; and Tannach and District Community Council areas are being encouraged to apply to the next round of the E.On Camster Community Fund.

The Fund will welcome applications for projects which will bring a range of enhancements to those areas, for example projects that improve local amenities, promote the area’s natural and cultural heritage, attract tourists to the area or champion sustainable energy use.

There are three level of awards available starting at £250 for small grants up to in excess of £25,000 for large scale projects.

Grant application forms are available to download from Foundation Scotland’s website
www.foundationscotland.org.uk/camster, with a closing date of 28th February for large grants and 31st March for small and main grants. Awards will be made in June.

Carol Elliot, Foundation Scotland’s local representative said “The first awards were made in 2013 and the panel is keen to encourage applications from groups who are providing activities or services which benefit the Community Council areas.”

She continues “Due to the scale and nature of the projects from the Watten Community Council area in 2013, unfortunately the Fund is currently closed to applications from groups in that area until the following round opens in early summer.”

Foundation Scotland has been appointed by the wind farm operator, E.ON, to administer the Community Fund. The Foundation works with communities local to the wind farm site to help them decide how funds should be allocated, using its grant-making expertise to ensure positive long lasting impact.

The funding will benefit charities and community groups in the Latheron, Lybster & Clyth; Watten, and Tannach and District Community Council areas. The Fund is expected to distribute around £150,000 per annum for the next 25 years, and is overseen by a local panel made up of representatives from across the three Community Council areas who make decision on awards.

For more information email Carol Elliot carol[AT]foundationscotland.org.uk or telephone Foundation Scotland’s Edinburgh office on 0131 524 0300. Alternatively visit the website
www.foundationscotland.org.uk/camster