NHS activity grants to support people’s mental health in Gateshead

Wednesday 30 March 2022

Community organisations in Gateshead will have the chance to improve people’s health through a new grants scheme announced by NHS Newcastle Gateshead Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).

The new scheme can support up to 15 groups, with priority given to smaller community-based organisations.

Dr Jessica Thompson, a local GP and the CCG’s clinical lead for mental health in Gateshead, said: “It’s been a difficult couple of years and many of us have felt isolated or need a helping hand with our mental health. We have added new services for anyone needing advice or support, but this new scheme is something different.

“From art, music or heritage, to sport, gardening or cooking, local activities can bring us together and help to improve our mental health. This fund is about supporting the activities that help us stay in better mental health. If an older person is feeling isolated, getting out of the house and seeing friends at a lunch club can often be better than a prescription from the doctor.

“Lots of groups are making a difference already – we want to build on that and learn more about anything that may be stopping people from getting involved and getting the benefits.”

Grants of up to £10,000 are available to voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise organisations across Gateshead. While the CCG is keen to support smaller organisations with annual income of less than half a million pounds, applications will also be considered from larger charities if they are the best organisation to meet local need.

The emphasis is on supporting early help and prevention-based projects and those which help keep people well within their community, especially where these can help to provide longer term support.

For further details, download the grant criteria and application form. Expressions of interest must be received by the CCG no later than 5pm on Friday 29 April 2022.