GSA promotes grants scheme for community groups at Dudley Council

The event took place at the Council House in Dudley ahead of the Full Council meeting on Thursday, January 29, with representatives from all political groups taking the opportunity to engage with GSA colleagues.

David Loon, Head of Localities at GSA, said: "Building strong relationships with our partners in local government is a priority for us, and speaking face-to-face is a powerful way to connect. The event was a great opportunity to discuss GSA’s work in Dudley, listen to concerns, and answer questions. Following positive feedback from last week’s event in Dudley, as well as a similar session for Walsall councillors, we will continue to engage with elected representatives across all our localities."

At the drop-in session, GSA promoted their Community Impact Fund, an initiative designed to support GSA customers and improve their local areas. The fund awards grants of up to £2,000 to residents’ groups, local charities, and community projects, with a focus on improving health and wellbeing, the physical environment, or life and employment skills.

GSA own and manage more than 1,200 homes across Dudley borough. The housing association has now issued elected members cards containing the details of a named colleague to act as a point of contact.

Cllr Ethan Stafford, who represents Cradley and Wollescote North, said: "It was great to see a housing provider so proactive in reaching out to Dudley councillors and offering a direct contact for raising any casework issues. GSA’s Community Impact Fund will also be of interest to some of the voluntary groups I work with in my ward."

Since launching in 2022, GSA’s Community Impact Fund has supported a wide variety of projects, including public art pieces, fitness classes for older people, and holiday activities for school children.

Find out more about the fund at greensquareaccord.co.uk/communities/community-impact-fund