Launch of Reaching People Environmental Fund Report

The Reaching People Environmental Fund report for 2023-24 has been published. The report highlights the programme of small, local environmental projects financed by the Reaching People Environmental Fund, in partnership with Leicestershire & Rutland Community Foundation, a grant-giving funder of local families, individuals, companies and agencies, and the public sector. 

 

Working with the Community Foundation, grants were given to small, locally run community groups in various forms (CICs, charities, parish councils, etc.), and the money was available for use anywhere in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. 

 

Projects were funded under five key themes: 

• reducing pollution 

• supporting wildlife 

• increasing recycling and the reuse of materials 

• protecting habitats and green spaces 

• raising environmental awareness and understanding 

 

Sangeeta Patel and Sarah Richards, Joint CEOs of Reaching People, said: "The funding, made available as a result of the closure of our local Groundwork Trust, provided the opportunity for Reaching People to work with the Leicestershire & Rutland Community Foundation for the first time. This approach has brought together the strengths and skills of two local strategic infrastructure organisations to create environmental opportunities for local groups and to create a local environmental legacy of ideas and approaches. 

 

"The programme provided opportunities to strengthen individual and organisational interest in the environment. We have seen an increase in both knowledge and enjoyment of nature for people of all ages. The process has contributed to building the strength and resilience of people, organisations and communities. We have seen organisations share and develop, and partnerships thrive, as a result of their commitment to improving the environment for all." 

 

Read the full report and details of all the projects funded here.