Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved (subject to call-in)

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: March 12, 2026

Purpose: To consider the minor amendments in relation to the Councillor Grant criteria.

Content: RESOLVED that   a.    the revised Councillor Community Grant Scheme criteria and guidance, as set out in Appendix 1 & Appendix 2 be approved; b.    the removal of the restriction on funding appropriate revenue costs (excluding salary and employment costs) be approved; c.    the increase in the maximum Councillor Community Grant award from £1,000 to £2,000 be approved; d.   changes to the grant approval process, including system improvements and the requirement for councillors to record how approved projects align with Council priorities be approved; e.   the use of any councillor grant funding remaining unspent at the end of the financial year to support eligible applications previously declined solely due to lack of available funds, to be allocated by the Portfolio Holder for Community Development and Engagement in consultation with the Executive Director of Community be approved; and f.    authority be delegated to the Director of Community Development to implement the revised application process, guidance, training and monitoring arrangements.   Reasons for the decision   To ensure that the East Hampshire District Councillor Community Grant Scheme continues to support the Council’s Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) approach and the delivery of the Building Thriving Communities strategy.   Alternative Options Considered   • Option 1: No change - Retain current criteria. This would continue to limit flexibility and reduce the scheme’s strategic impact.   • Option 2: Recommended - Revise the Councillor Grant scheme to allow funding of appropriate ongoing revenue costs, increase the maximum grant award to £2,000, introduce stronger alignment with Council priorities through system improvements, guidance and training, and improve monitoring and assurance. This option supports councillor discretion and local decision-making while strengthening accountability and maximising community benefit.   • Option 3: Remove revenue cost restriction only - Partial improvement, but without the strategic guidance and monitoring needed to ensure effective use of funds.