ORGANISATIONS involved in community projects in York are being invited to apply for a slice of £220 million.

City of York Council is inviting bids for the Government's UK Community Renewal Fund, which aims to support communities, businesses, create jobs and help people into employment.

Proposals should be sent to the council by May 16, after which a shortlist will be sent to the Government for consideration.

Cllr Andrew Waller, executive member for economy and strategic planning said: "We are looking for innovative responses to local challenges, recognising the needs of businesses and residents across the city which can be delivered by the end of March 2022."

He said applicants could include parish and town councils, resident and community associations, businesses, voluntary and community sector organisations and education providers.

“The past year has been incredibly challenging for communities, businesses and their employees so this is a great opportunity to support our city’s recovery."

The council said proposals are invited from across York.

Cllr Darryl Smalley, executive member for culture, leisure and communities, added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for organisations in York to come forward with new plans to shape our communities. Project proposals will be assessed on how well they meet local and national priorities.

“We are looking forward to receiving proposals that are ambitious yet deliverable. We hope that these proposals can provide inspiration to help our communities grow.”

Projects proposals are encouraged from all areas of York and should support local priorities.

Proposals should also support the following themes:

• investment in skills – work-based training; retraining, upskilling or reskilling; digital skills and inclusion

• investment for local business – support for new job opportunities; innovation potential; supporting decarbonisation measures

• investment in communities and place – feasibility for net zero and energy; promoting culture led regeneration and community development; improving green spaces and preserving local assets; promoting rural connectivity

• supporting people into employment – engagement with local services; addressing barriers to gaining employment; developing basic skills; testing what works in helping people into work

Successful bids will be for 2021-22. Projects must be completed by the end of March 2022.

The UK Community Renewal Fund Prospectus provides more information on the fund, including assessment criteria.