The council is providing grants from its £300,000 funding pot to empower community groups and initiatives to bring their impactful ideas to life.For those interested in applying for the funding this year, please visit <a href="https://watfordgrantform.commonplace.is/">watfordgrantform.commonplace.is</a> to find detailed information about the application process, eligibility criteria, and guidelines.

LAST WEEK TO APPLY: Reminder to submit applications and share deadline

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Building on the resounding success of last year's Neighbourhood Grant programme, the council is once again providing grants from its £300,000 funding pot to empower community groups and initiatives to bring their impactful ideas to life.The funding – which is managed by the council and available on an annual basis – is generated from a Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) that developers pay on new housing developments in the borough. Its purpose is to support local projects that address the impact of new development and ensure local people benefit from sustainable growth in the borough.For those interested in applying for the funding this year, please visit <a href="https://watfordgrantform.commonplace.is/">watfordgrantform.commonplace.is</a> to find detailed information about the application process, eligibility criteria, and guidelines.REMINDER: The final drop-in session at the Town Hall Annexe Building (Studio Room) from 2.30pm to 6pm will be on Thursday 23 November for prospective applicants to find out more about the Neighbourhood Grant. Please <a data-uw-rm-vglnk="" href="mailto:NCIL@watford.gov.uk" id="isPasted">NCIL@watford.gov.uk</a> if you have any questions. There will be signage on the day highlighting the session. &nbsp;

Deadline for grant applicants three weeks away and reminder for final drop-in session

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There will be another drop-in session at the Town Hall Annexe Building (Studio Room) from 2.30pm to 6pm on Thursday&nbsp;23 November for prospective applicants to find out more about the Neighbourhood Grant. Please <a href="mailto:NCIL@watford.gov.uk">NCIL@watford.gov.uk</a> if you have any questions. There will be signage on the day highlighting the session.&nbsp;Please do share this opportunity, alongside the drop-in session, with any groups or organisations that might benefit from the grant funding. We want as many as possible to apply! Find out more at <a href="https://watfordgrantform.commonplace.is/">https://watfordgrantform.commonplace.is/</a>

Final drop-in session for Neighbourhood Grant on Thursday 23 November

We want to ensure that local people benefit from sustainable growth in the borough, and this new, exciting grant will help us achieve this.

Watford’s Neighbourhood Grant - Apply today!

Watford Neighbourhood Grant

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Find all the details for the projects that have been shortlisted to receive funding

Summary of all projects 2024

<h1 id="isPasted">Applications Received</h1>Please find below a summary of all of the shortlisted applications.Click on the + to expand the boxes to learn more about the projects that we are considering.

Find out more about the West Herts ABC & Educational Support CIC project 

West Herts ABC & Educational Support CIC

<h1 id="isPasted">West Herts ABC &amp; Educational Support CIC</h1><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/commonplace-digital-limited/image/upload/v1704188951/projects/6283a81f3ffda95f54b9104f/euwa6o9l6yjjtb5ctmcx.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="West Herts ABC Logo" data-uw-rm-alt-original="" data-uw-rm-alt="HD" style="width: 300px;">Name of Organisation: &nbsp; &nbsp;West Herts ABC &amp; Educational Support CIC&nbsp; <span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":31167,"3":{"1":1},"4":{"1":2,"2":45136},"5":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"6":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"7":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"8":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"10":0,"11":4,"14":{"1":2,"2":0},"15":"Helvetica Neue","16":10,"17":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Random Cafe Watford"}'>Description of Project:To provide 2 new sessions per week, targeting disadvantaged children and young people (male and female) aged 11-19 (25 for those with SEN) who are new to the Callowland and Central Watford area.These young people are lonely and isolated. They are vulnerable to influence by negative role models, which could lead to gang affiliation and anti-social behaviour. Amount of Neighbourhood Grant (CIL) requested:&pound;5,000.00 HOW TO VOTE: Click on &#39;Support the project&#39; button below and then click next to confirm. Please leave your email to keep up to date with the projects.&nbsp;

Find out more about the proposals to improve accessibility at the Pump House

Improved Accessibility at the Pump House 

<h1 id="isPasted">Improved Accessibility for patrons&nbsp;&nbsp;</h1><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/commonplace-digital-limited/image/upload/v1703175395/projects/6283a81f3ffda95f54b9104f/au1ptlyget3qq6kbzkf9.png" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Pump house logo" data-uw-rm-alt-original="" data-uw-rm-alt="HD">Name of Organisation: &nbsp; &nbsp;Pump House Theatre and Arts Centre&nbsp; <span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":31167,"3":{"1":1},"4":{"1":2,"2":45136},"5":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"6":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"7":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"8":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"10":0,"11":4,"14":{"1":2,"2":0},"15":"Helvetica Neue","16":10,"17":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Random Cafe Watford"}'>Description of Project:To demolish the old costume shed and relocate a new costume container unit into the back of the building/car park creating access to all. Currently in its present position it is inaccessible to disabled users.&nbsp;To create improved access to lighting and sound balcony currently accessed by a vertical ladder. By creating access into the back of the balcony area this will ensure the area is easily accessible, improved access will enable training and skills opportunities to potential new lighting and sound operatives. The Pump House would also like to install an electric charger to the car park improving access to electric car users and supporting their environmental strategy and policy. Amount of Neighbourhood Grant (CIL) requested:&pound;14,225.00 HOW TO VOTE: Click on &#39;Support the project&#39; button below and then click next to confirm. Please leave your email to keep up to date with the projects.&nbsp;

Find out more about the Goods for Good project

Training and employment skills 

<h1 id="isPasted">Training and employment skills&nbsp;<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/commonplace-digital-limited/image/upload/v1703175016/projects/6283a81f3ffda95f54b9104f/nfo8t2wwlsh8fdjew3s8.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="GFG Logo" data-uw-rm-alt-original="" data-uw-rm-alt="HD"></h1>Name of Organisation: &nbsp; &nbsp;Goods for Good (Global)&nbsp; <span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":31167,"3":{"1":1},"4":{"1":2,"2":45136},"5":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"6":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"7":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"8":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"10":0,"11":4,"14":{"1":2,"2":0},"15":"Helvetica Neue","16":10,"17":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Random Cafe Watford"}'>Description of Project:This 16-week pilot project is a collaboration between OneYMCA and Goods for Good. Its aim is to take residents from the Watford Hostel and provide them with training and employability skills. As well as gaining valuable work experience, residents will grow in confidence, develop self-efficacy and social skills. Amount of Neighbourhood Grant (CIL) requested:&pound;4842.00 HOW TO VOTE: Click on &#39;Support the project&#39; button below and then click next to confirm. Please leave your email to keep up to date with the projects.&nbsp;

Find out more about the ITC Suite at Charter House project

ITC Suite at Charter House

<h1 id="isPasted">ITC Suite at Charter House</h1><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/commonplace-digital-limited/image/upload/v1703174637/projects/6283a81f3ffda95f54b9104f/gmzgptpmyjov8dzkvno4.png" class="fr-fic fr-dib" role="presentation" alt="One YMCA logo" data-uw-rm-alt-original="" data-uw-rm-alt="HD"> Name of Organisation: &nbsp; &nbsp;One YMCA&nbsp; <span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":31167,"3":{"1":1},"4":{"1":2,"2":45136},"5":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"6":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"7":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"8":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"10":0,"11":4,"14":{"1":2,"2":0},"15":"Helvetica Neue","16":10,"17":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Random Cafe Watford"}'>Description of Project:To support the creation of the ITC Suite at Charter House. &nbsp;It will give the 150 residents of Charter House access to the same essential training, resources and facilities as their peers as they develop and progress towards employment and independent living.&nbsp;Working in partnership with Oaklands College and their Corporate Partner CAE, they will deliver formal and informal training in IT. Having a dedicated area will ensure residents receive the specialist support required to help them identify the most appropriate routes to further education, training and employment opportunities which will enable them to progress to a financially secure future. Amount of Neighbourhood Grant (CIL) requested:&pound;30,000.00 <div data-testid="ProposalSectionRender" id="isPasted"><div data-testid="proposal-description-block"><div data-disable-events="true">HOW TO VOTE: Click on &#39;Support the project&#39; button below and then click next to confirm. Please leave your email to keep up to date with the projects.&nbsp;</div></div></div><div data-testid="ProposalSectionRender"><div data-disable-events="true"><div data-questionid="6307451c3021ac00133b07c8" data-testid="FormControlId"> </div></div></div>

Find out more about the Art and writing workshops by WAAF project

Art and writing workshops by WAAF

<h1 id="isPasted">Art and writing workshops by WAAF</h1><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/commonplace-digital-limited/image/upload/v1703174892/projects/6283a81f3ffda95f54b9104f/ypf6cck9k7i78c1cm5mo.png" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="WAAF Logo" data-uw-rm-alt-original="" data-uw-rm-alt="HD">Name of Organisation: &nbsp; &nbsp;Watford Area Arts Forum&nbsp; <span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":31167,"3":{"1":1},"4":{"1":2,"2":45136},"5":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"6":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"7":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"8":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"10":0,"11":4,"14":{"1":2,"2":0},"15":"Helvetica Neue","16":10,"17":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Random Cafe Watford"}'>Description of Project:A proposal for art and writing workshops with a focus on &lsquo;the planet&rsquo; and the benefits of recycling. &nbsp;This project is to be led by Sian Fenwick and Helen Nicell of WAAF.A series of inclusive workshops for adults and children will be held using recycled items, or items of nature.&nbsp; Amount of Neighbourhood Grant (CIL) requested:&pound;3000.00 HOW TO VOTE: Click on &#39;Support the project&#39; button below and then click next to confirm. Please leave your email to keep up to date with the projects.&nbsp;

Find out more about the Victoria Passage carriageway project. 

Victoria Passage Public Realm 

<h1 id="isPasted">Victoria Passage Public Realm&nbsp;</h1><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/commonplace-digital-limited/image/upload/v1703174726/projects/6283a81f3ffda95f54b9104f/xqbfmx0l7yoovarspo2t.png" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="WBC Logo">Name of Organisation: &nbsp; &nbsp;Watford Borough Council&nbsp; <span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":31167,"3":{"1":1},"4":{"1":2,"2":45136},"5":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"6":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"7":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"8":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"10":0,"11":4,"14":{"1":2,"2":0},"15":"Helvetica Neue","16":10,"17":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Random Cafe Watford"}'>Description of Project:To provide significant changes to the Victoria Passage carriageway. &nbsp;The proposal will create a level footpath promoting accessibility making it inclusive of all users.&nbsp;Public realm investments play an important role in connecting different parts of our town, attracting visitors, increasing footfall, and encouraging residents and workers to use sustainable modes of transport such as cycling and walking. The improvements to the public realm in Victoria Passage have the potential to create an environment in which people enjoy spending time, which helps a town centre to thrive. Providing well-designed areas has the potential to reduce anti-social behaviour such as fly tipping and crime. Amount of Neighbourhood Grant (CIL) requested:&pound;76,018.00 HOW TO VOTE: Click on &#39;Support the project&#39; button below and then click next to confirm. Please leave your email to keep up to date with the projects.&nbsp;

Find out more about the Nascot Residents Association sculpture  project

Nascot Residents Association sculpture 

<h1 id="isPasted">Nascot Residents Association sculpture&nbsp;</h1><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/commonplace-digital-limited/image/upload/v1703175269/projects/6283a81f3ffda95f54b9104f/vqqyshgcx801i5eayd4a.jpg" class="fr-fic fr-dib" role="presentation" alt="Nascot Residents Association logo" data-uw-rm-alt-original="" data-uw-rm-alt="HD">Name of Organisation: &nbsp; &nbsp;Nascot Residents Association&nbsp; <span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":31167,"3":{"1":1},"4":{"1":2,"2":45136},"5":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"6":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"7":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"8":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"10":0,"11":4,"14":{"1":2,"2":0},"15":"Helvetica Neue","16":10,"17":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Random Cafe Watford"}'>Description of Project:To create a sculpture to be designed by a local artist with contributions from the whole community. &nbsp;Emphasis will be given to local schoolchildren who, working with the artist, will be involved in helping to visualise elements of the sculpture and participate in elements of its creation.&nbsp;The aim is to produce a sculpture that recognises and celebrates the unique nature of the ward. Amount of Neighbourhood Grant (CIL) requested:&pound;3000.00 HOW TO VOTE: Click on &#39;Support the project&#39; button below and then click next to confirm. Please leave your email to keep up to date with the projects.&nbsp;

Find out more about the accessible soft play building project 

Accessible soft play building

<h1 id="isPasted">Accessible soft play building</h1><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/commonplace-digital-limited/image/upload/v1703175346/projects/6283a81f3ffda95f54b9104f/oh7yq01vrp13a8e4qiri.png" class="fr-fic fr-dib" role="presentation" alt="Watford Mencap logo" data-uw-rm-alt-original="" data-uw-rm-alt="HD">Name of Organisation: &nbsp; &nbsp;Watford &amp; District Mencap Society&nbsp; <span data-sheets-userformat='{"2":31167,"3":{"1":1},"4":{"1":2,"2":45136},"5":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"6":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"7":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"8":{"1":[{"1":2,"2":0,"5":{"1":2,"2":0}},{"1":0,"2":0,"3":3},{"1":1,"2":0,"4":1}]},"10":0,"11":4,"14":{"1":2,"2":0},"15":"Helvetica Neue","16":10,"17":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Random Cafe Watford"}'>Description of Project:To build an accessible soft play building within the organisation&rsquo;s garden for local children and young people with learning disabilities. &nbsp;This will be constructed with sustainable resources, and they will re-use the soft play equipment they kept from their previous facility. It will be heated, have air-conditioning and lighting. A ramp and handrail will make the building accessible for all, with the support of our trained and experienced team. &nbsp;The facility will also be available for use by other community groups. Amount of Neighbourhood Grant (CIL) requested:&pound;20,000.00 HOW TO VOTE: Click on &#39;Support the project&#39; button below and then click next to confirm. Please leave your email to keep up to date with the projects.&nbsp;