Community groups encouraged to apply for mental health support funding for families

Community groups across Tameside are being urged to apply for funding of up to £11,000 to support the emotional wellbeing of families with babies and young children.

The funding, provided through the Best Start for Life Community Fund, aims to help families thrive by strengthening parent-child relationships and mental health support during the early years of life.

Backed by Tameside Council and delivered in partnership with Action Together, the fund is open to voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) groups that are working to support families during pregnancy and the first two years of a child’s life.

Now in its third year, the fund has already helped local groups provide much-needed services for new and expectant parents. Past recipients include LEAP, a nature-based community group that runs outdoor sessions for parents, babies, and toddlers to encourage bonding, connection, and emotional wellbeing. Their work has contributed to improved school readiness and greater confidence in both children and their caregivers.

The fund has also been a lifeline for Finding Rainbows, a Tameside-based group that supports parents coping with baby loss. With previous grants, the organisation has been able to offer peer support and professional counselling, helping grieving families navigate the most difficult of times.

One parent spoke of how invaluable the care and support she received from Finding Rainbows has been to her: “I don’t know where I would be or what I would have done without the guidance and support from Lisa, Natalie, and all at Finding Rainbows. From losing our precious baby, Lisa has been with me every step of the way, and her kindness is something I will always treasure.”

Tameside Council Executive Member for Children’s Services, Councillor Teresa Smith, said: “The emotional and mental health support our fabulous voluntary, community and social enterprises are offering to parents, families and their little ones is immeasurable, and I am pleased that more groups can apply to the Best Start for Life Community Fund to allow them to continue offering their much-needed services.

“The grant funding can be a lifeline to VCFSE groups, and I hope many more apply so that they can continue their fantastic work.”

The deadline for applications is Friday 1 August, and details of how to apply can be found at www.actiontogether.org.uk/best-start-life-community-fund-round-5