Small grants for group visits available

Groups from Worcester, Bristol, Barnstaple, Bideford, Exeter and Plymouth have all benefitted from the scheme introduced last year by Exmoor National Park Authority to support visits to Exmoor.

Building on this success the National Park Authority is again offering small grants to groups that have not been to Exmoor before or have limited opportunities to enjoy what is special about the National Park due to lack of finances. Grants of up to £1000 per group are available to support a visit. This could pay for transport, costs towards residential accommodation to allow participants to ‘stay over’ and immerse themselves in an Exmoor Experience, or a contribution towards activities.

“The aim of this fund is to find that final bit of cash to enable people the opportunity to experience the delights of the National Park who would otherwise be denied the chance to visit one of Britain’s winning landscapes that many of us take for granted” said Tim Braund from the National Park Authority.

“We find that organisations can often raise funds for accommodation, transport costs or activities, but not for everything.” he continued.

Applications are particularly encouraged from youth organisations, disabled users, BME (black and minority ethnic) communities and groups based in urban areas.  Groups would be expected to raise a minimum of 20% towards the costs of their trip.  The National Park Authority team can also assist with planning a visit with advice on where to go, what to do, what to see and what group residential centres are available.

For further information, contact Tim on 01398 322241.

Published: 24 August 2012