Peter Landman on the latest round of the Newham grants programme

Newham Town Hall in East Ham with 'Newham Town Hall' sign outside — Newham Town Hall

More than 100 people turned out in June for the launch of the latest round of People Powered Places (PPP) which gives residents cash grants for projects to improve their neighbourhoods.

The launch of the programme, which Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz says is England’s largest public participation project, took place at East Ham Town Hall and outlined how residents can get a share of the £1,600,000 fund being shared between eight neighbourhoods.

The launch meeting was a great success, with a vibrant atmosphere and presentations from every council team, the Mayor and the Resident Engagement Manager.

The last round of the PPP saw support for 300 projects which were voted for by 15,000 members of the public and which benefitted an estimated 75,000 residents.

Councillor Charlene McLean, Cabinet Member for Resident Engagement said the projects improved well being, reduced loneliness, helped people cope with cost of living problems, expanded youth activities and facilitated environmental Improvements.

For the purposes of PPP, funding for individual projects is set at £5,000 for residents projects, £10,000 for youth led projects; and £20,000 for voluntary and faith group projects.

Around £400,000 of the funding is ring fenced for youth projects and the total amount allocated per neighbourhood is £200,000.

Throughout the process of selection there are public meetings, appointment of working group members and support for applications. A special Youth Advisory Board has been set up (see below).

Jason Strelitz, Director of Adult Social Care and Health and Communities explained that members of the public should vote for priorities which are aligned with the Mayor’s priorities set out in the policy document Building a Fairer Newham. People can vote by ballot at local libraries, or online, or through their smartphone.

Examples of projects on display included dance project leaders Sue Davis, Fitness for Families, and Stella Howard, Inclusive Rhythms, who showed off their dancing; and invited everyone to join in.

Applications for PPP funding open 18 July and close on 14 September People Powered Places – Newham Council

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