A community organisation in Cotmanhay has secured £224,307 in funding from the East Midlands Mayor’s Community Development Fund to support a project aimed at strengthening local connections, increasing volunteering and improving communication with residents.
The funding has been awarded to Parkside High CIC, a community interest company based in Ilkeston, which will deliver the “Future Cotmanhay” project.
The scheme is one of several initiatives funded across the East Midlands as part of a £3 million programme created by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) under the region’s newly established mayoral authority.
What the money will fund
According to details released alongside the funding announcement, the Future Cotmanhay project will focus on improving community engagement and tackling social isolation.
Key elements of the project include:
Community newsletters
Regular newsletters will be delivered to households across Cotmanhay to keep residents informed about local events, services and opportunities.
Community noticeboards
New noticeboards will be installed in key locations to provide information and updates for residents who may not access information online.
Cotmanhay Community Assembly
A new community forum will be created where residents can meet, discuss local issues and share ideas about improving the neighbourhood.
Volunteer opportunities
The project aims to create around 30 volunteer roles, encouraging residents to get involved in activities and local initiatives.
Community activities at Cotmanhay Wharf
The outdoor space at Cotmanhay Community Wharf will be used to support volunteering and community engagement activities.
Cost-of-living support
The scheme also aims to provide 1,200 “warm space resources” to residents, such as clothing and draft excluders to help tackle the cost of living.
Supporting digital skills
Alongside the Cotmanhay project, a separate local organisation has also received funding.
Softclue Learn Hub has been awarded £22,400 to deliver digital skills training aimed at improving residents’ confidence with technology and data skills.
Part of a wider regional fund
The Community Development Fund is part of the new East Midlands mayoral programme aimed at supporting neighbourhoods facing social and economic challenges.
Cotmanhay was selected as one of several areas across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire identified as benefiting from additional support to strengthen local community networks.
The mayor’s office says the funding is designed to help residents become more involved in shaping their communities and create stronger neighbourhood connections.