Ward Improvement Initiatives Scheme
Frequently asked questions about the Ward Improvement Initiatives Scheme (WIIS).
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What is the ward improvement initiatives scheme?
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What can be funded through the scheme?
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How do I apply for funding?
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Frequently asked questions?
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What has been funded before?
What is the Ward Improvement Initiatives Scheme?
Information For Organisations
About the Ward Improvement Initiative Scheme (WIIS)
Are you a member of a local community group or charity which would benefit from a funding boost? If so, help could be close at hand in the shape of the WIIS scheme from Hertsmere Borough Council.
Each of our 39 Councillors has a £1,000.00 WIIS allocation to spend on worthwhile projects in their ward that support Hertsmere’s corporate goals which are:
Safer Communities
Healthy, Thriving Communities
Decent Homes
Quality Environments
Economic Wellbeing
WIIS cannot be used to fund projects in any single ward, which require further capital or revenue expenditure or create any form of on-going year-on-year financial commitment by the Council.
What can be funded through the scheme?
The following list identifies some typical improvement projects which would be eligible for consideration under WIIS. The list is not exhaustive:
- Improvements to the public realm such as chairs, benches, children’s play equipment, adult outdoor fitness equipment and improved signage in public areas.
- New or replacement equipment for either a community hall or meeting place which promotes greater levels of use by the local community.
- New or replacement equipment for a not-for-profit organisation whose activities support the council’s corporate goal(s).
- Local events which promote the council’s corporate goal(s) such as organised sport, physical activity, heritage or cultural life.
- Other improvement ideas not covered here may also be eligible for consideration under WIIS if they are consistent with the council’s current corporate goals.
Items not eligible include:
The following list identifies some typical improvement projects which would not be eligible for consideration under WIIS. The list is not exhaustive:
- Paying employees or other people engaged in local community work on a long-term basis.
- Large capital works which lead to on-going financial commitments for the council.
- Projects which benefit only a few select people.
How do I apply for funding?
You are encouraged to discuss your proposal with your local Councillor before completing the application form. To find who your local Councillor is, please visit www.hertsmere.gov.uk.
Follow this link to complete an on-line application form.
Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by the Councillor who will then decide whether or not to support it. The application will then be assessed by the Council’s Head of Corporate Support and Director of Resources. You will be notified by letter or email whether or not your application has been successful and, if applicable, the process to follow to claim the funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can receive a grant?
Any properly constituted group, club or organisation, which is based in, or operates for the benefit of the residents of Hertsmere and has it’s own bank account.
My project is already running – can I request funding?
Yes, if there are still activities which require funding. However, you cannot apply for retrospective funding.
How do I claim funding?
We may be able to provide money up-front. We would require evidence of expenditure within 3 months of payment. If the money has not been spent in accordance with the application you will be asked to return the money. All payments made will be made by Banker Automated Clearing Service (BACS). Under no circumstances will cheques or cash be issued.
What records do we need to keep if we receiving funding?
You will need to obtain and retain (for a period of 3 years) evidence of expenditure, this includes invoices and receipts.
What evaluation will we need to undertake if we are successful?
You will be expected to produce a brief evaluation showing how the grant was used and how effectively it addressed the aims outlined in your request form six months after the award. This can be supplemented with other material such as a press report.
