A new fund aimed at supporting small, community focused or non-for-profit organisations and charities operating within the Borough of Barnet has launched and will be open for applications from August 2024.
The Silkstream Community Fund (SCF) has been established as part of the Silkstream development in Hendon, a new low carbon, nature rich neighbourhood being delivered by St George, a proud member of the Berkeley Group.
Operated by CB Plus, an independent community infrastructure and development organisation, the fund will provide financial support to local groups that make a meaningful difference when it comes to sustaining and growing the local economy, improving wellbeing and increasing inclusivity.
Organisations looking to benefit from this fund can apply from 1st August via https://cbplus.org.uk/portfolio-items/silkstream-community-fund/
To be eligible, proposed projects or initiatives must address at least one of the three community priority areas around local economic growth, wellbeing and inclusivity. Successful organisations will be allocated grants from September.
This fund forms part of St George’s wider ambition for the area, which is to transform brownfield land into a thriving new community that brings significant benefits to both residents and the existing community.
Marcus Blake, Managing Director at St George, commented: “We are committed to establishing a community at Silkstream that is long lasting, plentiful and thriving for many years to come, and a key part of that is ensuring that local organisations and residents that share our ambitions for making a difference have the right support to achieve this.
“St George launched a similar fund almost 10 years ago in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets and during that time has supported 90 grassroots projects and over 6,000 people through local initiatives. We hope that via the Silkstream Community Fund we will be able to expand on this and are excited to hear about the initiatives that will make a significant difference in the Borough of Barnet.”
Julie Pal, CEO at CB Plus noted: “For over 40 years, CB Plus has supported Barnet, building connections and helping residents through various initiatives. We’re excited to grow this legacy through our partnership with St George.
“Together, we’re launching the Silkstream Community Fund to support organisations, social enterprises and charities in Barnet. This fund focuses on key community priorities: sustaining and growing the local economy, improving wellbeing and increasing inclusivity – values at the heart of CB Plus.
“By backing these initiatives, we aim to foster a thriving, inclusive environment for everyone in Barnet. With St George by our side, we’re confident in making a significant impact.”
Once complete, Silkstream will comprise more than 1,309 new homes, a 43,000 sq ft Sainsbury’s flagship store, as well as a series of beautifully landscaped open spaces, including a 1.5 acre public park and 1.4 acres of podium gardens.
Silkstream is set to achieve an impressive 895% biodiversity net gain and, working with the Canal and Rivers Trust, will be re-landscaping the embankment of the Silk Stream.
Over 200 paid work placements and work experience opportunities have already been created as part of the delivery of Silkstream, with St George also committed to working with more than 50 apprentices throughout the development’s lifecycle.
For more information on the Silkstream Community Fund, please visit: https://cbplus.org.uk/portfolio-items/silkstream-community-fund/
