Summer grant programme launches

30 Jul 2024

The RM Partners grant programme has launched successfully, with the initial call for expressions of interest garnering a huge number of submissions. Of these, 119 received funding.

The programme offered local community and voluntary organisations funding to hold activities and events that support local people to stay healthy and well.

This is part of our plan to raise awareness of cancer signs and symptoms and encourage people to contact their GP practice if they notice something of concern.

Applications to host activities and events that could reach a diverse range of communities were prioritised, including:

• People aged 55 and over
• African, Bangladeshi, Caribbean, Chinese, Korean, Pakistani, Somali and Sri Lankan communities
• People living in areas experiencing poorer access to healthcare
• Specific groups experiencing poorer access to healthcare or from at-risk populations, such as older adults, those living in areas of deprivation, ethnic minority communities and people with disabilities

Around 198 events are scheduled to be held by the end of September. Activities range from walk and talk groups, sound meditation, community baking, film screenings, fruit farm trips to local producers, family sport and fun days, and cook and share events.

We are working with local groups to support their events and, where possible, arrange for clinicians and screening specialists to attend.

Once all the events have taken place, RM Partners will undertake an evaluation of all the insight collected. We will then work with our programme teams so they can incorporate this information into their project plans to improve outcomes for local populations.

For more information about the programme please contact Amanveer Nathan, amanveer.nathan1@nhs.net