Call To Support A Positive Future For Bradford Communities

GiveBradford have launched The Bradford Fund which supports the vital work of local Community Organisations, focused on reducing inequalities across the district. It aims to improve lives now and in the future.

As society emerges from ongoing challenges and economic uncertainty, GiveBradford are calling on businesses and individuals who want to experience real social change and help Community Organisations in a new way, by empowering them to build a sustainable future.

By generating investment into The Bradford Fund, GiveBradford can distribute strategic grants to enable Community Organisations to become more resilient, funding their core costs to help them develop and be ready for future challenges alongside their daily delivery.

Bradford as a young, diverse and vibrant city, is perfectly placed to inspire a generation, creating opportunities to shape a thriving future for all. However, there are people across the district that continue to face economic and social challenges and many of which, are being supported by
grassroots organisations who enable them to access these possibilities, creating a fair and equitable
society for all. These organisations need funding now more than ever.

GiveBradford distributed over £1.5m in grants and support for local communities across the District last year. Key to the success of GiveBradford has been the development of strong partnerships and regular consultation with Community Organisations and key partners.

Steph Taylor, Director at GiveBradford said: “Here in Bradford, we have over 1,400 local Community Organisations operating district-wide or more locally. Our role is to support their development and provide them with the funding that will enable them to thrive.”

“Our grant making has always been led by Bradford communities, and now we have a dedicated fund that will allow us to support the priority needs of our local communities.”

“Most of the groups we fund don’t have the infrastructure or capacity to raise funds directly from companies, individuals and national trusts and foundations and we play a vital role in connecting people who want to give with groups who can spend their money creating real social change in the place they love.”

Sharon Orr, Community Affairs Manager and GiveBradford Board Member said: “Bradford has a great history of philanthropy and giving and it’s important that our businesses invest not only in the immediate needs of our communities, but also their futures. Our city has such rich and diverse communities in which we all live and work and we have a duty of care to them which we must take seriously to ensure our collective sustainability.

“I hope that businesses will see The Bradford Fund as a core part of this funding provision. At Provident, we’re committed to helping tackle barriers to social and financial inclusion, so the work of GiveBradford is crucial to helping us do this effectively. Provident is proud to be a long-term funder and I’m also delighted to be a board member.”

The Bradford Fund has already distributed £120k to 12 Community Organisations across the District.

One of those groups who have been awarded a grant to build capacity and growth is West Bowling Youth Initiative (WBYI), who work with children in the BD5 area. They provide education, employment and leisure opportunities that support personal and social development.

Haqueq Siddique, Manager at WBYI said: “This type of unrestricted funding is vital to enable us to look at sustainability and build capacity and growth in coming years. WBYI have been working in the community for the last 30 years and we aim to continue our provision over the next decade – providing support, guidance and building confidence in young people for an easier transition into
adulthood.”

GiveBradford is seeking investment from businesses and individuals into The Bradford Fund. To find out more visit: www.givebradford.org.uk/the-bradford-fund or to donate www.justgiving.com/campaign/TheBradfordFund