New grants programme targets health concerns in Leeds

Two Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) in Leeds have invested a combined amount of over £1 million in their communities to improve health and wellbeing across the North, South and East of the city.

TransitNHS Leeds North CCG and NHS Leeds South and East CCG have launched the NHS CCG Third Sector Health Grants scheme, which will  help to reduce the gap in life expectancy between the most deprived and most affluent communities and reduce health inequalities in Leeds.

Funding is available to support various projects, such as developing or delivering services, establishing and maintaining partnerships and involving local people in community activities surrounding health and wellbeing.

Activities being targeted include tackling alcohol addiction, providing support for those with mental health concerns and addressing the healthcare needs of children and infants.

Both funds will be managed by Leeds Community Foundation, the largest independent grant-making organisation in the city. The Foundation’s Chief Executive, Sally-Anne Greenfield, said “We are delighted that we have been able to support the CCGs in delivering a grants programme that will give much needed support to local community needs.”

Nigel Gray, Chief Officer of NHS Leeds North CCG, said “The programme is intended to improve the lives of residents in North Leeds, engaging with the community groups in the area and assessing the needs of local people. The third sector is a valuable ally in the challenges we face as a city, so it is important that we engage with its members and empower them to deliver their innovative ideas to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for people in North Leeds.”

_DSC2583Andy Harris, Clinical Chief Officer of NHS Leeds South and East CCG and GP in East Leeds, said “There are numerous challenges that South and East Leeds faces in regards to health, for example, high levels of obesity, large numbers of people with alcohol and smoking related illnesses, and higher rates of infant mortality. We are delighted to launch the Third Sector Health Grants programme, which gives local communities the opportunity to shape how these challenges can be overcome through innovative health schemes.”

The NHS CCG Third Sector Grants scheme for the North, South and East is now open for grant applications. Guidance notes and application forms are available to download from www.leedscf.org.uk/third-sector-health-grants

 

This post was written by Kirsty McKinnon using our Create an article for South Leeds Life page.