Jimbo’s Fund Supports Thousands across Leeds

More than 4,200 people in Leeds benefited from activities funded by Jimbo’s Fund in 2021 and 2022. 

The Fund, established in 2008 by local businessman Jimi Heselden, makes grants to Community Organisations that make a real difference for people experiencing hardship in the city. The wide-ranging impact of the pandemic has exacerbated existing inequalities, and taken its toll on many people’s wellbeing, which has been compounded by the cost-of-living crisis. Nearly 8 in 10 Britons surveyed say their mental health has been affected by the cost-of-living crisis, while 62% of young people, and 41% of adults are unable to afford their usual social activities. 

Throughout the years, Community Organisations did so much to support local people. From providing physiotherapy for children with disabilities and supporting women through wellbeing sessions, to offering digital training for people with visual impairments and providing sports and gym mentoring for young people. Thanks to all of this important activity, more than 4,200 people benefited, with over 2,400 reporting that their mental health had improved, and over 700 saying they felt more socially connected. 

One organisation, The Youth Association, delivered detached youth work on the streets of Burmantofts, Richmond Hill and Halton Moor. The programme, StreetSafe, included workshops on a range of topics, such as drugs awareness, knife crime and CPR. Not only did they reach over 500 young people through the project, but they were also able to secure £20,000 of additional funding for the organisation. 

One participant said “Since I been working with you guys I changed. You lot has taught me a lesson that no one could ever tell me… I wanna keep working with you lot… I am proud of myself, and am planning to do more work with the street safe programme.” 

This latest impact of Jimbo’s Fund adds to the incredible legacy built over the 15 years that it’s been running. In total, more than £17.5m has been invested in Leeds communities, with over 27,000 people supported. We look forward to working with Jimi’s family to continue his amazing legacy for years to come.