Some of the most vulnerable people in Bolton have been helped to the tune of £2M thanks to Bolton's Fund.

Now the innovative funding programme supporting local organisations and charities has been recognised at a prestigious national awards event.

Bolton’s Fund was a finalist in the 'Delivering Better Outcomes' category at the annual MJ Awards

The MJ (Municipal Journal) is the UK’s leading publication covering local government and community issues.

Judges praised Bolton’s Fund as an 'innovative multi-agency initiative' and a 'great example of partnership working'.

Established in 2019, the fund is a collaboration between the council, Bolton Clinical Commissioning Group, Bolton at Home, Bolton CVS and local community groups.

It brings together funding from the different institutions with all grants awarded by an independent panel of experts.

Charities and community groups of all sizes are encouraged to apply for different levels of funding across a number of themed rounds.

Each round is designed to address key priorities and concerns of Bolton communities, including health and wellbeing, community cohesion and climate change.

The fund also helps signpost charities to Bolton CVS to access support, advice and training.

So far, Bolton’s Fund has made 500 investments totalling more than £2m.

Projects supported by Bolton’s Fund include Bolton Deaf Society, which received £25,000 to continue their information and advocacy service for local residents.

Baby Basics was awarded £8,900 to support struggling families with essential items such as nappies, cots, mattresses and bedding.

Bolton Wanderers in the Community used their £987.90 grant to purchase tablets and laptops to keep isolated older people connected during lockdown.

Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, Cllr Mudasir Dean, said: “I am delighted that Bolton’s Fund has been recognised for ‘Delivering Better Outcomes’ at the MJ Awards.

“This award category recognises teams that have made a real difference in the lives of local people, and it is clear to see the positive impact the fund is having here in Bolton.

“The idea behind Bolton’s Fund is to take the politics out of awarding grants and let experts decide how money is awarded to meet the concerns and prioritise of our residents.

“I would like to thank our many partners who played a crucial role in setting up the fund and continue to contribute to its ongoing success.”

Dawn Yates-Obé, Chief Executive at Bolton CVS, said: “The Bolton’s Fund is a great example of partnership work in action in Bolton.

“Data, intelligence and insight is gathered from many sources to inform the themes of the grant rounds, enabling impactful investment into our communities.

“We’re incredibly proud, at Bolton CVS, to be a Bolton’s Fund partner.”

Applications are now open for the latest round of funding designed to promote “Standing Together - Safe, Strong and Cohesive Communities”.

Grants of up to £2,500, up to £10,000 and up to £20,000 are available for projects that keep people safe, support victims, reduce harm or strengthen communities.

For regular updates on Bolton’s Fund and upcoming rounds, subscribe to the Bolton CVS email newsletter.