UK Shared Prosperity Funding: A Year of Opportunity Extended

• Health checks for farmers, which happen twice a month at Melton Mowbray Livestock Market. This programme is delivered by Lincolnshire Rural Support Network (LRSN) and has had a significant impact on those who have accessed the support available.  This scheme has been showcased as an example of best practice at a national level and is relevant to the rural context, supporting residents in one of our key sectors who may not otherwise have the time or feel able to prioritise their health. This invaluable service has so far delivered 516 health screening checks, made 188 referrals and in some instances provided lifesaving advice and support. 
• Continuation of the council’s flagship Work and Skills project. This initiative, delivered in house by the council’s Community Support Hub, has enabled over 170 residents in the borough to access targeted skills and training based on employer's needs, enhancing their employment opportunities. This programme has exceeded all anticipated outputs and targets and has supported 34 people back into long-term employment. In the upcoming financial year, this work will continue to help those who are further away from employment to securing jobs. This part of the UKSPF programme has also connected with and inspired opportunities to better support with our rural communities, for example, extending the reach of our digital support into rural areas via our rural food hub network.  
• The role of Community Coordinator will bring together successful elements from the previous UKSPF funding. This role will continue to support the reach and delivery of services, which are funded by both UKSPF and other initiatives provided by the council and its partners. The aim is to engage our rural communities by using the Rural Food Hub Network as bases for delivering outreach support, thereby bringing our services closer to residents who are more rural and isolated. The further development of this new collaborative role has been shaped by feedback gathered from the recent Rural Community Connection Consultation. 
• More money is being put into Pride in Place activities, with £72,000 set aside to help carry out the proposals outlined in Council's Draft Town Centre Design Guide and its action plan. This guide was created with funding from UKSPF and input from various local partners and businesses. Once approved, it will include various projects to make the town more inviting and attractive, especially at key entry points. 

The council is committed to continue to deliver these successful programmes on behalf of its residents and will closely monitor the outputs and delivery to ensure value for money is achieved. Through working with partners and the beneficiaries of the programme these interventions will remain flexible in their delivery to ensure they continue to meet changing local needs.

Cllr Pip Allnatt, Leader of Melton Borough Council stated that “this additional funding is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our council and partners. It allows us to sustain and expand our efforts to make Melton a thriving community where everyone can succeed. We are committed to ensuring that our residents benefit from these programmes, which are tailored to address the unique challenges and opportunities across the whole scope of our borough. By investing in the Town Centre, health, skills, and community engagement, we are laying the groundwork for a resilient and prosperous future for all our residents.”