28th May 2025
People in Barrow are being given the chance to help decide how £85,000 of funding is shared among community groups in the town.
Residents are asked to bring their local knowledge and ideas to a series of workshops, to decide what kinds of projects the money should support and who should be able to apply.
The funding, managed by Cumbria Community Foundation, has been provided by Team Barrow’s Social Impact Fund, which aims to make Barrow a better place to live, work, study, visit, and invest in.
Those joining the community panel will be asked to take part in three workshops, where they will design the application process and talk about the difference they want to see the funding make.
Annalee Holliday, Head of Grants Practice and Programmes at Cumbria Community Foundation, said: “We’re incredibly grateful for the funding from Team Barrow’s Social Impact Fund, which is helping us bring a broader range of voices and real-life perspectives into our grant making. It’s a fantastic opportunity for people from all walks of life to get involved in shaping how funding is distributed across Barrow.
“Whether you have first-hand experience of the issues we fund, professional insight, or simply a passion for making a difference in your community, your voice matters. It’s a chance to learn, to share, and to make a real impact on local lives.
“We really hope people feel inspired to sign up – it’s rewarding, meaningful, and a great way to be part of something bigger.”
Nat Wealleans-Turner, Community and Social Impact Lead at Team Barrow said: “Team Barrow recognises and values the strength, passion, and expertise within our local communities. We believe it’s critical to involve local people from all backgrounds in shaping and guiding our work, as we deliver The Plan for Barrow — making Barrow a healthy, happy, and thriving place to live, work, and visit.
“We’re proud to partner with Cumbria Community Foundation, drawing on their extensive experience in grant making to manage this exciting part of our Social Impact Fund. This collaboration puts decision-making power in the hands of local people, enabling them to influence how the fund will operate and how funding is allocated making a real, lasting difference in their communities.
“We are excited to see what Barrovians have planned for the fund!”
The workshop dates are as follows, at Piel View House in Barrow Park on Abbey Road:
• Friday 4th July, 12pm – 4pm
• Friday 11th July, 1-4pm
• Friday 18th July, 1-4pm
For those wishing to be involved, support is available with childcare, travel arrangements, and translation. The venue will be fully accessible.
As a thank you for participants time and contribution, those who attend all three workshops will receive a voucher of their choice.
To take part or find out more, please get in touch with Laura Goad at Cumbria Development Education Centre on 015394 31602 or email: laura@cdec.org.uk. Alternatively, you can register using this link by 24th June.