Three Wiltshire-based charitable organisations are gearing up for innovative initiatives, fueled by grants from Wiltshire Wildlife Community Energy (WWCE) Ltd, one of the county’s largest not-for-profit solar energy enterprises.
The WWCE Community Fund has allocated grants totaling approximately £10,000 to Action for the River Kennet (ARK), 1st Hilperton Equinox Explorer Scouts, and Meadowbrook Community Interest Company (CIC).
During a recent meeting of the WWCE Community Fund panel, applications from these organisations were identified for financial support, and the grants have now been received. This funding will empower them to launch diverse wildlife and climate-positive projects across Wiltshire.
Meadowbrook Community Interest Company (CIC), located just outside Melksham on a two-and-a-half-acre plot, will use its £3,800 grant to establish a diverse, pollinator-friendly sensory garden and a captivating wildlife habitat. This outdoor space aims to connect local individuals facing physical or mental health challenges, encouraging them to immerse themselves in nature and participate in therapeutic activities.
Action for the River Kennet (ARK), a passionate river advocacy group, has been awarded nearly £4,500 to create a new rain garden and implement sustainable drainage solutions at Great Bedwyn village hall. This initiative marks their sixth rain garden scheme, promoting wildlife-friendly green spaces that allow rainwater to filter slowly into the ground, preventing pollutants from reaching rivers.
1st Hilperton Equinox Explorer Scouts, situated near Trowbridge, will use their grant of almost £2,000 to develop a program offering 13- to 18-year-olds the chance to experience paddle sports on the River Avon. The funding will cover the installation of solar panels, battery storage, and related equipment on a specially adapted container. This unit will utilise renewable energy for lighting, air circulation, and accessible changing facilities for young participants.
Jon Bateman, Chair of WWCE’s Community Fund, expressed, “This is an incredibly challenging time for those in third sector organisations and small community-benefit companies who rely on donations and public support to deliver their services.”
Julian Barlow, Chair of WWCE and Trustee of the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, highlighted the commitment to community benefits, stating, “We’ve allocated a significant £130,000 to good causes which align with our ethos of reducing carbon and protecting wildlife throughout the county.”
The WWCE Community Fund is managed by a panel meeting three times a year to review applications and allocate grants. To learn more or apply, visit www.wwce.org. This initiative demonstrates the ongoing dedication to fostering positive change within the local community.
