With the launch of the Balchder Bro programme this week, there is an opportunity for groups across the island to apply for practical support to promote and deliver community projects.
Led by social enterprise Menter Môn, the aim is to give people the confidence to come forward with plans that celebrate what makes their area unique. Funded by UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, the focus will be on celebrating the Welsh language and Anglesey’s distinct identity through projects that will foster local pride.
Elen Hughes has recently been appointed as Project Director with Menter Môn, she explains: “Working for the benefit of the island’s communities has been central to Menter Môn’s vision for over 25 years. An important part of our mission is to celebrate the island’s heritage and language, creating prosperity locally and working together with residents to ensure sustainable change.
“Our aim with this plan is to stimulate discussion about what makes people proud of their village or area and enable communities to turn ideas into reality. Menter Môn has considerable experience of working at a community level, and we hope to use this experience to help deliver worthwhile projects.”
Elen explains that there are no specific restrictions on the type of project or activity Menter Môn can support through the Balchder Bro programme, but the emphasis should be on celebrating local identity. The hope is that events such as Gŵyl Cefni and Menter Môn’s previous projects, such as Ein Hanes Ni and Celfi Môn, can inspire people to think about what can work in their area.
Catrin Jones is the Language and Community Manager at Menter Môn, she adds: “This is an exciting opportunity for voluntary groups, social enterprises or individuals to realise ideas they have to celebrate their community. We can provide advice and support as well as financial assistance.
“Our message is simple – get in touch. We are ready to support and collaborate with any community and we are keen to bring people together. From concerts to public art, and from community gardens to skills workshops we are ready to chat and to help.”
People who want to apply for support are asked to fill in a form to declare an interest if they have a project which would fit the Balchder Bro vision. The Menter Môn team will then be in touch to move the process forward.
The scheme has received £1.6 through the UK’s Common Prosperity Fund and Menter Môn is also grateful for support from the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA).
Information on how to apply is available on the Menter Môn website.
