A FUNDING boon for Colchester’s creative arts will return this year, with thousands of pounds in grants to be made available to organisations which contribute to the city’s cultural scene.

The Cultural and Creative Events Fund, which is worth a total of £30,000, allows charities, not-for-profit groups, and community organisations to apply for micro grants worth between £250 and £1,500.

Applicants are expected to come from organisations which deliver creative experiences to audiences in Colchester and celebrate the city’s heritage.

Other requirements for applicants include having an aim to reduce social isolation through fostering inclusive communities and break down social barriers.

The money has been made available from Colchester Council, which is providing £20,000, and NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB), which is providing £10,000.

Colchester Council’s Pam Cox said the fund has been made available in part thanks to the commitment of volunteers at a host of organisations in Colchester, whose efforts bring people together.

She said: “Thanks to the commitment of a huge range of individuals and groups, the breadth and diversity of our cultural offer makes the City of Colchester a unique place to live, visit, work, and study.

“In partnership with our local NHS, through this fund we hope to support organisations and communities across the local authority to provide further fantastic opportunities for people to come together and participate in a wide range of creative and cultural activity.”

Dr Ed Garratt, the chief executive NHS Suffolk and North East Essex ICB, added  the success of the fund from last year will likely see more organisations benefit from funding.

He said: “It’s well known that involvement in creative and cultural activities has a positive effect on an individual’s wellbeing, as well as giving a boost to our communities.

“From the success of last year’s fund, we know that Colchester is bursting and flourishing with creative energy, and hope that 2023 will see even more new projects come forward.”

The application window for the funding will close on Monday, February 6, with the events organised required to take place between April 2023 and May 2024.

Applications can be made via: bit.ly/3jOjLx4.