Cumbria County Council's Eden Local Committee recently agreed grant awards valued at over £42,500 from the Contain Outbreak Management Fund (COMF).

It was agreed during a meeting on Monday 15th November, with the funding being used to deliver and support a range of projects in the Eden District.

Councillor Phil Dew, Chair of Eden Local Committee, said: "I’m pleased that we, as a local committee, were able to offer these grants and assist community recovery following the pandemic. The diverse range of projects we have supported will help develop strong and resilient communities in Eden which is one of Eden Local Committee’s key priorities."

Carlisle and Eden Mind have been given £12, 300 to enable an online wellbeing support platform for parents and carers.

Stainmore Railway Company has been given over £7,000 to contribute towards the renovation of the rail coach. Whilst almost £8,000 was granted to Barton and Pooley Bridge Parish Council to increase the capacity of their waste bins and sanitising stations.

£7, 504 was granted to Every Life Matters to support a Suicide Awareness Training Programme. Inspira was given a similar amount to enable bespoke training around life and employment skills during the pandemic.

The Contain Outbreak Management Fund (COMF) has been made available in response to community recovery from the pandemic.

Officers from the Eden Area Team have been communicating with community groups and third sector organisations in Eden.

They have been sharing information about funds that are now available to 'Harness Local Capacity' and 'Improve Outdoor Spaces.'

The aim of the funds is to support the cost of additional services to meet increased demand, and encourage residents to enjoy their local area and attract new visitors away from the ‘honey pot’ areas.

Community groups wishing to apply for funds can email Eden.Areasupport@cumbria.gov.uk with details of their project, and for more information on how to apply.

Eden like other parts of Cumbria and the rest of the country has struggled to some degree over the course of the pandemic. This money should help to get the borough and its services back on its feet.