RESIDENTS and community groups have been encouraged to come forward with ideas on how to improve their neighbourhoods.

Cotswold District Council have invited people wanting to make a difference in their community to a free online Crowdfund Cotswold workshop at 1pm on Monday, July 17.

Crowdfund Cotswold is an online community crowdfunding platform - which was launched by Cotswold District Council in partnership with Spacehive in 2021 - where residents, local businesses, the council and other organisations can all pledge money alongside each other to crowdfund projects that improve their neighbourhoods. 

During the workshop attendees will find out how to pitch up to £10,000 from the Cotswold Community Fund and learn tips and strategies for creating compelling crowdfunding campaigns.

Projects must serve a community purpose and could be something as simple as a new street mural or community garden, or more ambitious such as a large community event.

Successful projects which have already been funded using this platform include the new skate park in Fairford and solar panels for the Cirencester Open Air Swimming Pool.

Cllr Lisa Spivey, cabinet member for communities and public safety, said: “I’m thrilled to announce the launch of Crowdfund Cotswold's next funding round and a free workshop for anyone with ideas, big or small, to improve their neighbourhood.

“Community-led projects have the power to transform the Cotswold District and make it an even better place to live, work, and visit.

"Since launching in 2021 the initiative has raised over £610,000 for 32 community projects across the district. 

“With the success of Crowdfund Cotswold, we would like to invite anyone with ideas to improve their local area to a free virtual workshop that we hope will inspire more creativity and innovation from our residents and local groups.

“The workshop is a great opportunity for passionate individuals and organisations to come together, learn from each other, and gain the knowledge and confidence to turn their ideas into reality. 

"We are excited to see what new ideas will emerge from this event and the positive impact it will have on our community."

To book your place on the workshop visit tinyurl.com/2p8k342u