Purpose

The purpose of this report is to seek approval to award the early release of grants totalling £0.135m to 30 voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise sector projects to enable successful applicants to prepare and commence with Winter delivery support projects. 

Decision

The Executive Director (Resources and Partnerships) in consultation with the Leader and Cabinet Member for Health is recommended to;-

a)    Award grants totalling £0.135m to the 30 voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise sector projects detailed at Appendix A to this report; and

b)    Authorise the Head of Legal Services to enter any necessary legal agreements.

Alternative options considered

Without the proposed investment in winter delivery projects as part of the Knowsley Community Fund 2026/27, opportunities to provide early intervention and preventative support to vulnerable residents during the winter period would be reduced. This may result in increased demand for statutory services, alongside poorer outcomes relating to health, wellbeing, social isolation and financial resilience. Failure to approve the proposed funding would negatively impact the Council Plan 2025-2030 priorities of promoting healthier communities, addressing inequality, supporting residents facing the greatest challenges, and strengthening community capacity to respond to local needs.