Council cash awarded to three Ryedale groups

The funding was set up to ensure that the vital work of such organisations can continue during the Covid-19 crisis.

The second-wave of funding goes to Ryedale Community Transport, Ryedale Special Families and Next Steps Mental Health whose work in the community is under threat due to lack of cash.

Grants of up to £4,000 have been awarded to be spent on new services, or a change in service delivery, so that those who need support during these difficult times, continue to get it.

Councillor Keane Duncan, leader of Ryedale District Council, said: “The Emergency Grants Fund is our way of stepping in to support those organisations who are carrying out vital work in the community at this difficult time.

“Covid-19 has had a major impact on their services, with the lockdown putting a stop to their fund-raising activities and day-to-day operations.

“These groups need support to survive, so the Council is stepping in to help.”

Councillor Steve Arnold, deputy leader of the Council and chair of the Grants Working Party, said: “It’s our key aim to support the citizens of Ryedale, especially those whose lives and livelihoods are most at risk as a result of Covid-19.”

Ryedale Community Transport offers affordable transport solutions to rurally isolated communities, groups and individuals with special transport needs, for example those with mobility issues, the elderly and young people accessing training, education and jobs.

Ken Gill, chief officer at Ryedale Community Transport, said: “We’re delighted to receive the grant from Ryedale District Council. It’s taken a huge weight off our shoulders.

“Covid-19 has had an impact on us financially and we’ll need to look at this in the longer term.”

Ryedale Special Families supports families of children and young people with disabilities, additional needs and illness. The £4,000 grant awarded will help the charity continue to support its families by regular telephone contact, one-to-one support work for the most complex and vulnerable, video messaging and the collection of prescriptions and shopping.”

Lisa Keenan, chief officer of Ryedale Special Families, said: “This grant has come at a really crucial time. Our income has changed quite drastically and the impact will last for the rest of the year.”

Next Steps Mental Health helps nearly 300 people by phone, daily, seven days per week.

Leisa Burniston, service manager, said: “We have had a huge hit financially due to no income through our community cafes and groups. The grant from Ryedale District Council is literally a lifeline for us to continue to support people in these difficult times.”