Connecting through shared heritage
Heritage sites across the North East will benefit from a new community funding venture. Tony Henderson reports
A grant scheme has been launched for community projects at 20 heritage sites in the North East.
The Community Connections programme is designed to provide a platform for local communities to connect with and celebrate their local heritage.
It covers free to enter English Heritage sites in Tyne and Wear and North Northumberland, with backing from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The funding will support local individuals and groups to create and run initiatives at the sites, focusing on three key areas: wellbeing, heritage skills, and nature.
Groups can apply for grants of between £250 and £5,000 over the next 18 months.
Andrea Selley, territory director for the North at English Heritage said: “Thanks to the generous support of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, we are thrilled to be able to offer this opportunity to communities.
“As a charity, it’s important to us that our neighbours at the sites in our care, feel a part of the special historic places on their doorstep. We hope that these grants can make a real difference to local people.”
Helen Featherstone, director of England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund said: “Investing in heritage means investing in the community it belongs to, which is why we are proud to support the Community Connections project, thanks to National Lottery players.
“This will allow communities to explore and share the local heritage that is really important to them.
“It is a fantastic way of bringing people together and creating a sense of pride in the areas in which they live.”
Deadlines for applications for Tyne and Wear between March 26 to June 25 and North Northumberland September 1 to November 30.
Find all the information on the region’s sites and the programme can be found on the Community Connections area of the English Heritage website.