ARWAIN Sir Benfro, the Local Action Group (LAG) for Pembrokeshire, administered by PLANED - has recently provided funding to The VC Gallery in Haverfordwest, through the LEADER programme.

The £10,200 funding for the project, ‘Inspiring Pathways’, is to open pathways between different generations amongst contemporaries who feel socially excluded, and introduce people to other agencies who may be able to address their particular concerns.

The project aims to combat social exclusion and improve mental wellbeing within rural communities.

This is just one example of the great projects being delivered in the county. PLANED, now celebrating its 30th year, has helped communities in Pembrokeshire to access over £25m worth of funding during that time.

Arwain Sir Benfro is currently inviting submissions of project ideas from local community groups, organisations or businesses.

Cris Tomos, animation & impact officer, said: “If you have an innovative idea that could benefit your community, you may be able to get funding from the LEADER programme and we would love to hear from you.”

LEADER can support all kinds of activity: mentoring, training, feasibility studies or pilot projects that test an innovative new idea. It could also be used for projects that improve local skills, make better use of a local resource or realise the economic potential of part of the locality leading to a ‘new’ outcome or product.

Further information about LEADER, which is part of the Welsh Government Rural Communities – Rural Development Programme 2014 – 2020, financed by the Welsh Government and European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) or Arwain Sir Benfro can be found at www.arwainsirbenfro.cymru.

If you have an idea, or would like further details on how to apply, please contact Jess or Cris at PLANED on 01834 860965 leader@planed.org.uk