feature: Making the Difference
4 August 2008
Haringey Council's 'Making the Difference' grants for local projects are paying for the improvements residents want right across the borough.
Trips out can be a rare treat for older people. But in Northumberland Park there’s now a regular programme, thanks to ‘Making the Difference’, where residents can see the sights and get together with their neighbours, from all backgrounds.
John Catling, from Northumberland Park Over 55’s Club, said:
“The London Eye trip was fantastic. It was a lovely clear day and we could see everything. I just wanted the wheel to go faster! We had a lovely boat trip on the River Thames too.”
Over in Muswell Hill, the local playing fields are well used but the entrance was neglected and down-at-heel. Now that’s all changed.
“New fencing and much improved planting has produced an attractive entrance which has instilled pride and pleasure from all users,”
says resident Dawn Miles.
And in Tottenham Hale a sustainable allotment is taking root where residents from across the world in the Living Under One Sun group are learning to grow and cook their own fruit and vegetables.
Meanwhile Stroud Green residents have published their thoughts and opinions about the area in a professionally produced book, and Alexandra Park school children can take time out at a new friendship bench.
Other schemes going ahead this year thanks to ‘Making the Difference’ include dog training sessions in Noel Park, canoeing for young people on the River Lea and tree planting in the Harringay Ladder roads.
Cllr Lorna Reith, cabinet member for community cohesion and involvement, said:
“Local people know what improvements are needed in their area, and this is a great way to turn those ideas into reality.
“The scheme shows that small amounts of money spent on what residents want can make a big difference.”
How the 'Making the Difference' scheme works
Under the ‘Making the Difference’ scheme each of the seven local area assemblies in the borough is allocated £50,000. Local people and groups then put forward ideas for funding. Residents express their preferences at area assembly meetings, and local ward councillors agree the final grants.
Projects must be one-off and can be awarded a maximum of £10,000. The funding can be ‘matched’ with other grants; the council’s neighbourhood management teams can help with funding sources and applications.
Find out more
Find out more at www.haringey.gov.uk/areaassemblies or contact Sharon Annafi on 020 8489 4928.
Return to the Features Page.
