Village halls and other buildings are central to the life of many communities, particularly in rural areas.
We welcome applications for improvements and additions to halls where they are likely to lead to them being more regularly used by a wider section of your community, including those who face disadvantages in their lives. This may include kitchen improvements, toilet upgrades, disabled access, hearing loops and public address systems, insulation, double glazing or weatherproofing.
We are aware that funding for hall improvements are scarce and that many halls are in need of refurbishment. However, our resources are limited and there are many halls in Somerset seeking support. We will therefore prioritise applications where:
- The community shows evidence of strong ownership of the hall (which is likely to be an independent registered charity) by taking the major responsibility for funding improvements;
- The Parish Council, whilst not owning the hall, is making a significant contribution to the upkeep of the hall;
- There is a viable plan to raise sufficient funds to make the hall useable, safe, accessible and attractive to all in the community;
- The hall is well used, including by people who would otherwise be marginalised (the elderly and isolated, those with disabilities, children and young people);
- The funding application is for investment in changes to the hall which will reduce disadvantage and social isolation to potential community users.
In most cases our contribution will not more than 25% of the total cost, or 50% if the hall is serving an area of significant deprivation.