People helping people in Barrow: A celebration of a community grant making project through Barrow Rising

The People Helping People Fund, which has successfully awarded £85,000 to local community projects, was collaboratively designed by members of the local community and financed by the Team Barrow Social Impact Fund. A panel of residents convened to determine the allocation of funds, granting support to various small charities and community interest companies in Barrow. This approach has ensured that funding decisions are informed by firsthand experience and align with the priorities of local residents, thereby directing resources where they are most needed. The initiative has received local support from the ICB, Westmorland and Furness Council, Cumbria Development Education Centre, and Cumbria Community Foundation, which has administered the fund.

A celebration event took place at The Bridge in Barrow on 14 May, bringing together panel members, grant recipients, and the local network.

Barrow residents who participated in the panel reported that the process fostered new connections, generated innovative ideas and energy, and deepened their understanding of various challenges faced by community members.

They noted the presence of many individuals with shared values and vision for Barrow.

Another participant stated:

“This is the first time I have felt valued and listened to as a member of the community.”

The People Helping People initiative embodies the principles of the Barrow Way, emphasising the importance of recognising and celebrating local residents, and working collaboratively to develop solutions that benefit the wider community.

Two community projects that benefited from the initiative are: