Purpose

The report presents an
application for funding under the Council’s Community Funding Programme.

 

An application to the Community
Fund has been received from ACT Self Defence for £4,320 towards minor
renovations at their premises.  This
includes a matted wall, a mobile wall and separation curtains.

 

ACT Self Defence is a community-focusses
organisation delivering self-defence training and Violence Against Women and
Girls (VAWG) awareness seminars to local residents.  Their work aims to improve personal safety,
confidence and wellbeing, particularly for women, girls and other vulnerable
groups. They also work in partnership with the Police Crime Commissioner on ‘Empower
them’, a project designed to support young people experiencing challenges who
may benefit from positive role modelling and opportunities to channel their energy
in a more constructive way.

 

The organisation works closely with community members, local organisations,
and frontline professionals to provide accessible, practical education that
helps people recognise risk, build resilience, and feel safer in their daily
lives. ACT Self Defence expects to support approximately 200 participants each
year.

 

They are seeking funding to support minor renovations to our premises at
95 West Street, which is used to deliver self-defence classes, workshops, and
VAWG seminars. The proposed improvements will enhance the safety,
accessibility, and functionality of the space, ensuring it is fit for purpose
and welcoming for all participants – including those who may have experienced
trauma and require a safe, comfortable environment.

 

The total cost of the project is £4,800. ACT Self Defence is requesting
£4,320 from the Community Fund, with the remaining amount being met from their
reserves. The PCC has also provided funding of £14,800 to deliver three
‘Empower them’ programmes, for which some of this equipment will also be used.

 

As of 2 February, ACT held £1,980.14 in their accounts. In the accounting
year July 24 – June 25 there was an income of £14,325 and expenditure of
£10,579.52.

 

Both Ward Councillors, Councillor L Whittle and Cllr K Wiltshire support
the ACT Self Defence community funding application.

 

Decision

RESOLVED that the Executive Member
for Leisure and Community approves the award of £4,320 from the Community Fund
to ACT Self Defence.