Issue - meetings

That Members support the work of the Community Foundation in Wales on behalf of the Council.

The Strategic Policy Advisor introduced the annual report on work undertaken by the Community Foundation in Wales in managing the Flintshire Community Endowment Fund (the Fund) on behalf of the Council.  The report also provided an update on the performance of the Clwyd tripartite Welsh Church Act Fund (Clwyd WCAF).

Members were introduced to Andrea Powell - Director of Programmes (Deputy Chief Executive) of the Community Foundation in Wales - who gave a presentation covering the following:

·         Community Foundation Wales - update

·         Fund History and Overview - Flintshire Community Endowment Fund/Tri-partite Welsh Church Act Fund

·         Financial performance

·         Summary of grants awarded

·         Case studies

·         The future

Since the previous report and as a direct response to the national emergency, Community Foundation Wales had awarded over £5m worth of grants to more than 1,000 individuals and organisations across Wales.  The Council’s website would be updated with regard to information on the three funds available specifically to Flintshire residents - Flintshire Community Endowment Fund, Flintshire Welsh Church Act Fund and the Hawarden and District Relief in Need Fund.

Councillor Richard Jones said that promotion of the correct information would help elected Members to raise awareness amongst communities.  Andrea Powell provided details on eligibility relating to schools.  Contact details and presentation slides would be shared with the Committee.

In response to questions from Councillor Paul Shotton, clarification was given on the approach to investment management to maximise returns.  Members were also informed about the promotion of funds through the website and various forms of social media.

When asked by Councillor Carolyn Thomas about help for community groups to apply for grants, Andrea Powell confirmed that the Flintshire Local Voluntary Council was represented on the grants panel.  Whilst the limited amount of funding presented a challenge, alternative funding streams were identified where possible.

Clarification was also given to Councillor Joe Johnson on funding for Church and community groups setting up foodbanks during the pandemic.

The recommendation was moved and seconded by Councillors Geoff Collett and Paul Shotton.

RESOLVED:

That Members support the work of the Community Foundation in Wales on behalf of the Council.