The Smethwick Partnership Board has announced that the Smethwick Pride in Place funding programme is now open, following its launch on 1 July.
This marks a significant milestone for both the Board and the wider Pride in Place programme as it moves into its delivery phase.
The Pride in Place programme is a government-funded initiative aimed at helping communities improve local areas, strengthen connections and build pride in place. Following government approval of Smethwick’s 10-year Regeneration Plan, the launch of this funding programme represents an important step in turning local priorities and shared ambitions into tangible action.
Grants ranging from £500 up to £25,000 (Year 1 funding) are now available to local groups and organisations working for the benefit of Smethwick communities. All funded projects must be delivered within 12 months of receiving the grant.
The funding will support projects that align with the programme’s agreed investment themes, including initiatives that improve local spaces and community environments, strengthen connections between residents, support young people and families and create opportunities for education, skills, and employment. Projects that promote health and wellbeing, enhance community safety and support cultural activity will also be considered, where they deliver clear benefits for local people.
A two-stage application process has been introduced, consisting of an initial expression of interest followed by a full application for shortlisted projects. All applicants must speak with a Neighbourhood Development Officer before submitting an expression of interest, to discuss their proposal and ensure it aligns with the programme. Online guidance is available, and applicant support sessions can also be booked to help organisations develop their ideas and applications. Partnership working and local spend are strongly encouraged to maximise the benefit of investment within Smethwick.
The launch of the funding programme represents a key step in delivering the ambitions set out in the Regeneration Plan, enabling local organisations and groups to bring forward projects that respond directly to community needs.
Councillor Ray Nock, Sandwell Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth, said: “There is a great deal to be proud of in Smethwick, and through the Pride in Place programme we are committed to making communities even stronger, more connected and better places to live and work.
“This funding will help focus on what matters most to people in Smethwick – from improving local spaces and strengthening community ties, to creating opportunities for jobs and skills. It will enable residents, local groups and organisations to come together and play a leading role in shaping the future of their neighbourhoods, with community-led action central to delivering meaningful and lasting change.”
Alan Taylor, Chair of the Smethwick Partnership Board, said: “The launch of the Smethwick Pride in Place funding programme is a significant milestone for the Partnership Board and for the community. It represents a real opportunity to turn the vision set out in the Regeneration Plan into tangible improvements across Smethwick.
“Local organisations and residents understand their communities best, and this programme is designed to support them to deliver projects that make a meaningful difference. The Board looks forward to working together to strengthen pride in Smethwick and create lasting benefits for local people.”
Gurinder Singh Josan MBE, MP for Smethwick and Smethwick Partnership Board Member, said: “I was pleased to lobby this Government for additional funding for Smethwick and delighted when Smethwick was chosen as one of the recipients of £20million Pride in Place funding. This new funding marks an important moment for Smethwick, bringing Government investment into the heart of our community and supporting long-term regeneration ambitions.
“I have been keen to ensure our Pride in Place is used to back local ideas and give our community the tools to shape their own future. By supporting projects that respond directly to local needs, this programme will help create stronger neighbourhoods, greater opportunity and lasting change across Smethwick.”
