What will it fund? Grant-receiving organisations will be expected to be the accountable body for a portfolio of projects that address one or more of the priorities and together form a cohesive plan. The mental health projects should develop preventive approaches to common problems such as stress, depression and anxiety disorders, tackle the stigma around mental health and involve users in the design and development of projects.
Projects addressing physical activity should increase everyday levels of activity, especially among those with the most sedentary lifestyles, and improve the capacity of communities to organise their own opportunities to become active. The healthy eating strand is designed to build access to and encourage consumption of healthy foods, and in particular to increase children's knowledge of healthy foods and to encourage them to improve their eating habits.
Who can apply? Charities and voluntary organisations, statutory bodies and the private sector. Indeed, pretty much any group acting for the public good that can mount a portfolio of projects. This is an England-only programme.
How much is available? Overall, 165m over five years, with 45m ring-fenced for healthy eating projects. The minimum size of grant is 1m, with most expected to be considerably more.
Application procedure: The deadline for stage one applications is 28 July. Those successful at this stage will be invited to develop a stage two application to be submitted by March 2007, with projects starting by October 2007. Development grants of up to 10,000 may be available for stage two applications. Partnership bids are encouraged as the scheme is likely to be oversubscribed. Guidance and forms are available online at www.biglotteryfund.org.uk.
