Unsung heroes working to help local communities are set for a cash boost thanks to a new partnership between South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue and the South Yorkshire Community Foundation.

The 'Safer South Yorkshire' grant campaign will provide much needed assistance to the area's volunteer led projects, with grants of up to £5,000 available for those making a difference in their area.

The funding has been made available through SYCF's Grassroots Grants programme that offers grants to community groups throughout Barnsley, Rotherham and Sheffield, and a bumper pot has been made available through the South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Pauline Grice, chief executive of SYCF, said:  “We are absolutely delighted to have teamed up with South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue for this fantastic grant campaign.

“Many community groups and projects in the area are having a positive impact on the fire service's priorities without even realising it, and we're confident that through the 'Safer South Yorkshire' campaign we can help them with the great work being done.”

Groups who require smaller amounts of up to £700 can apply through a fast track process, and SYCF encourages potential applicants to contact them to discuss their application.

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue is committed to bringing down the number of fatal injuries caused by fire, reducing arson, protecting the environment and promoting health and wellbeing.

Pauline added: “There are so many groups in this area whose activities contribute to creating a safer South Yorkshire.

“This might include youth centres that provide diversionary activities for younger people who may otherwise resort to anti-social behaviour, or lunch clubs that help prevent social isolation for the elderly who may be vulnerable in their own homes.”

SYFR's Head of Community Safety Steve Makepeace said: “This new partnership demonstrates our commitment to supporting the wealth of extremely valuable work happening in communities across South Yorkshire.

“Community projects can play a key role in helping to reduce arson and other types of antisocial behaviour, and we are delighted to support them through this campaign.”

Through the Grassroots Grants programme, SYCF has been tasked with identifying those groups in Sheffield communities that are in the greatest need of receiving a cash boost. 

The South Yorkshire Community Foundation is a grant making organisation that helps build stronger communities by promoting local giving.  It has been delivering grants to local communities within Sheffield since 1986, and through the Grassroots Grants funding stream is well placed to extend its good work further into the community.

To apply for a slice of cash from the 'Safer South Yorkshire' grant campaign groups should apply online at www.sycf.org.uk in the Grant Campaigns section.

Applying groups must have an annual turnover of no more than £30,000, be volunteer led and be addressing a community need.  A full set of eligibility criteria is available on our website. Applicants should read all the information available before filling in their form. 

Groups who have already used the fast track form to successfully apply for an SYCF grant must fill in SYCF's full application form.  Call the grants team on 0114 2424294 to discuss your application further.

Applications must be sent to the SYCF office (Unit 3 – G1 Building, 6 Leeds Road, Sheffield, S9 3TY).