Healthwatch Isle of Wight has announced that funding is now available for the Isle of Wight community through what is known as a Community Chest.
The Chest has been established to provide small grants of between £100 and £2000 to individuals, groups and organisations.
One of Healthwatch Isle of Wight’s priorities this year is mental health services, so if you have an idea that will make it easier for people to share their experiences of accessing mental health services, or for improving people’s wellbeing, then you could be eligible for a grant.
Joanna Smith, Healthwatch Isle of Wight manager, has said:
“We know that one in four of us will suffer from depression, anxiety or other mental health condition in any given year and people living with severe mental illness are at risk of dying on average 15 – 20 years earlier than the general population, so it is essential that mental health services are given the priority they deserve.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for smaller organisations on the Island to support local people to share their experiences of services and to identify better ways of working together”.
Applications are now open to community groups or individuals who wish to ensure that people’s voices are heard and priority will be given to smaller organisations.
If you would like more information, email [email protected] or visit the website www.healthwatchisleofwight.co.uk.
