Information Bulletin
1 June 2004
New Grant Aid Schemes Launched
Shetland Islands Council's Community Development Service has today announced the launch of their new improved grant aid schemes.
Following a series of public meetings throughout Shetland and extensive consultation with the voluntary sector a number of amendments to the previous grant aid schemes have been agreed by Shetland Islands Council and Shetland Charitable Trust. The main changes to the schemes include;
- Simplifying the application process by reducing the number of Capital, Development and Support Grant Aid schemes into one Capital Grant Aid scheme, one Development Grant Aid scheme and one Support Grant Aid scheme.
- VAT to be allowed as an eligible cost where appropriate.
- The introduction of a new application submission deadline of 2 full months prior to the start of a project for the Development Grant Aid Scheme.
- A reduction in the maximum grant available to adult groups for development projects from £1,500 to £1,000.
- The introduction of a new grant aid scheme entitled "Support Grant to Youth Centres."
- Improvements to all aspects of service delivery to applicants by implementing various service pledges, new grant application forms and scheme guidelines.
In order to assist community groups to adjust to the new guidelines, the grant aid schemes will only fully come into effect from 1 st January 2005 . Please note this will require Development Grant Aid scheme applications for funding to be submitted to local Community Offices by 31 st October 2004 .
It is hoped that the revised grant aid schemes will simplify and improve the application process for community groups and continue to enhance the quality of life in Shetland.
New application packs are now available on request and should you require any further information on the above or an application pack please contact your local Area Community Development Office.