Funding
The Scottish Government provided funding for local authorities to run OSHL and Study Support activities until March 2007. Since March, funding for activities has not been ring-fenced, but money will be provided to achieve policy outcomes. This move from ‘activity-based’ to ‘outcomes-based’ funding is an ideal basis for sustaining and developing OSHL programmes, as evidence has shown that OSHL and Study Support are highly effective ways of meeting policy objectives.
The EA Lead Officers’ Group will be developing advice for schools and partner agencies during the next few months on how to locate programmes within policy initiatives.
Big Lottery Fund (Scotland)
The Big Lottery Fund has recently launched a new series of funding initiatives entitled Investing In Communities. Scotland has £257 million to spend between 2006 and 2009. Grants will last up to 5 years.
There are four different strands to the overall investment programme:
- growing community assets
- life transitions
- dynamic, inclusive communities
- supporting 21st century life.
Two of these strands will be of particular interest to those planning and delivering OSHL.
Life Transitions Fund
The Life Transitions fund will focus on four key areas, one of which is pertinent to young people. Transitions for young people include: from nursery to primary; from primary to secondary; from S2 to S3; leaving care; leaving school; returning from exclusion, etc.
The aim is to develop flexible, accessible services, with community support for young people, so partnerships and partnership development is important in preparing proposals. It is intended that activities will also boost self-confidence and skill levels. Activities can range from the acquisition of core skills to very innovative practice. Applications can be for 100% funding or a proportion of matched funding (in ‘cash or kind’).
Supporting 21st Century Life fund
The Supporting 21st Century Life fund is designed to respond to changes in family structures, and help re-connect the generations and include excluded groups. The focus for this fund is on strengthening community relationships, and improving health and well-being, self-esteem confidence and life skills. Projects could include activities such as play, befriending, and ICT. Again, partnerships with the community are encouraged.
Other funding programmes
In addition to the Investing In Communities programme, there are:
- an Investing In Ideas scheme, which has £4.6 million to spend over 3 years in piloting research, consultation exercises or testing out new projects
- the Awards for All programme (where up to £10,000 can be granted for projects – and please note: schools can apply too).
On the Big Lottery Fund (Scotland) website you can also talk to a BIG funding advisor to discuss your Investing In Communities proposal on 0870 240 2391.