14.10.11
Camden breaks down the barriers to equality
A new equalities and cohesion fund has been created by Camden Council, in an attempt to provide better opportunities for Camden’s most vulnerable residents and communities.
The fund, which aims to equalise the chances given to all of Camden’s sub-groups, will include mentoring for homeless people and better access to financial advice for families in debt.
Out of the 96 applicants who applied for the fund, 35 voluntary and community sector organisations have been selected to run vital projects in Camden. These organisations include Action for Blind People, the British Somali Community, and the Camden LGBT forum.
Councillor Sarah Hayward, Camden Council’s cabinet member for Communities, Regeneration and Equalities, said: “Despite huge cuts to councils by central government we are more determined than ever to continue tackling the toughest social problems facing our residents.
“Camden Council’s equalities and cohesion fund is about breaking through the barriers created by inequality and lack of social cohesion and giving a helping hand to those who are being held back.”
Government cuts last year saw Camden Council facing a budget gap of almost £100 million. In response to the cuts the council took a new approach to how it funds the voluntary and community sector, ensuring that money goes to projects most likely to provide the best outcomes for Camden residents.
The equalities and cohesion fund provides £1 million per year over three years to help organisations run services that will benefit the community. The organisations successful in their applications for the fund will begin their agreements on 1 January 2012.
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