Local MP Karen Bradley has encouraged local community groups in Staffordshire Moorlands to start thinking about potential bids to a new Women’s Suffrage Centenary Grant Scheme.
The Chancellor announced a new £5 million fund in the Budget to mark the important milestone of the centenary of voting rights for women in 2018.
The Government's intention is that the money will fund projects that raise awareness of this crucial milestone, and inspire people to play their part in building a diverse political system for the future.
This will kick-off a year-long opportunity to remember the bravery of the suffrage movement, and inspire a new generation with their story.
Last month, the Government published a tender for a grant administrator to oversee the scheme. The grant scheme has two funding streams: the small grants stream has a ceiling of £2,000 to support small local celebratory events. The larger grants stream will cover projects from £2,000 to £125,000 that will principally focus on increasing young people’s understanding of, and engagement with, democracy; and encourage women to participate in public life.
Karen said:
"Next year marks the centenary of voting rights for women, and I am pleased that the Chancellor announced a £5 million fund to mark this.
"The grant scheme has been set up to cover projects to raise awareness of this important milestone. Funds will be available and I would encourage local groups and organisations to start thinking about putting bids forward when the small grant scheme opens.
"It would be great to see groups across the Moorlands take advantage of this fund to promote the centenary next year and to inspire the next generation."