The fund, aimed at groups that focus on physical wellbeing, will cover the cost of using the park’s world class sports venues and hiring its sports instructors
Community Access Fund supported project
The Lee Valley Regional Park Authority is inviting local charities and groups that seek to increase physical activity in Waltham Forest and beyond to apply for a £120,000 fund.
The Community Access Fund for 2024 aims to support local groups that promote physical exercise in people that live around the Lee Valley. The fund covers the cost of using the park’s world class sports venues and hiring its sports instructors as well as transport costs to the park.
Since the launch of the fund in 2015, hundreds of community groups have enjoyed experiences throughout the park’s inspirational sports venues and stunning open spaces with the support of highly trained coaches and instructors. It’s worth noting that traditional sports clubs do not qualify for the fund, however.
The funding will cover the cost of using Lee Valley Regional Park’s world class sports venues from white water sports to cycling, ice skating, athletics, horse riding, hockey and tennis or exploring our open spaces through guided walks, team building days, woodland crafts and mindfulness in the outdoors.
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Groups looking to engage in longer term projects and initiatives that increase physical activity and achieve wider social benefits are also being encouraged to apply for Lee Valley’s Active Communities Grant Scheme.
This scheme is designed to support organisations working with people and communities that are marginalised from society at a local level – whether that be a result of social, economic, or cultural reasons – and supports longer programmes that can drive change, encouraging ongoing physical activity across the park’s sports venues and 10,000 acres of green space.
Shaun Dawson, chief executive of the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority said: “We know how vitally important it is for all communities to have access to open space, sports and leisure opportunities.
This year we are reaffirming our commitment to breaking down barriers for communities by increasing our funding for those people who, for reasons of cost or circumstance, may not otherwise be able to visit Lee Valley Regional Park and take advantage of the fabulously diverse opportunities it offers.
This significant investment forms part of a milestone year for the Authority, with the 10th anniversary of two of our London 2012 legacy venues – Lee Valley VeloPark and Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre.”
For more information on the grants and how to apply please go here
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