The NHS Rotherham Small Grants Scheme allows community groups and organisations to bid for up to £500 per project out of a total of £10,000 available through the scheme. 

The closing date for applications is 31st December and applications are welcomed from a wide range of groups and organisations working in Rotherham.  There is no restriction on the number of times groups and organisations can apply.  

Helen Wyatt, Patient and Public Engagement Manager at NHS Rotherham, said: “We have had numerous enquiries about the grants and sent out many application forms but have had a limited number completed.  To apply for a grant the scheme or project must be able to demonstrate that it is of benefit to the health of people within Rotherham.”

Last year Headway Rotherham was awarded a £500 grant to set up a project to re-teach cookery skills to people after brain injuries. Sessions were held at the Jamie Oliver Ministry of Food Shop in All Saints Square. 

Jenny Woodward, Vice-Chair of Headway Rotherham said: “We would like to thank NHS Rotherham for awarding us this grant which has allowed us to give survivors of brain injury and their carers a brilliant experience. The group learnt new skills, achieved a feeling of greater independence and worked together to support each other, as well as strengthening friendships.

“Basic cookery skills that many people take for granted are massive achievements for someone with brain injury. Producing dishes they cooked themselves, which they are proud of and they can take home to share with family and friends, gives a great sense of pride and achievement.”

Other local groups that were assisted in 2009 include: 

• Friends of Anston Brook, 
• Rotherham Physical Disability Sports Group, 
• Scope Rotherham Day Service, 
• National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society (Rotherham), 
• Swallownest Pre-School, 
• National Autistic Society (Rotherham), 
• Rotherham United Community Sports Trust Valley Park Walking Group, 
• Canklow Wood Primary School Breakfast Club and 
• St Josephs Leopold St and Westgarth Tenants and Residents Association.

All applications are checked to ensure that applications will benefit the people of Rotherham and that the best possible use is being made of public money.

The grants panel is made up of a member of the NHS Rotherham’s Patient and Public Engagement Team, a representative from NHS Rotherham Public Health and members of the Rotherham Health Network.

Start-up grants are also available for groups wishing to start up a health based organisation or non-profit related idea, project or group.  Applications are sought until 31st December 2010.

For more information on NHS Rotherham Small Grants Scheme please contact Yvonne Nettleton on 01709 302612