Torfaen County Borough Council’s cabinet has given the green light to reforms that will transform how funding is allocated to local groups.

The changes are designed to enable community organisations to take a more active part in delivering the Torfaen Deal initiative.

A fresh system for council funding will launch in April 2028, offering sums of up to £75,000 for initiatives spanning three years and up to £20,000 for projects running on an annual basis.

Cllr Fiona Cross, who serves as the executive member for communities, expressed that grassroots and voluntary bodies make an immeasurable impact each and every day, assisting inhabitants in accessing help, fostering relationships and enhancing wellbeing.

She noted that this choice acknowledges the significance of such efforts while guaranteeing that financial support corresponds with the objectives outlined in the Deal. By adopting a staged method, existing bodies will receive continuity while additional groups gain chances to influence Torfaen’s direction.

She added that the reforms fundamentally centre on channelling resources into neighbourhoods, championing homegrown approaches and guaranteeing local people can enjoy services and pursuits that meaningfully improve their circumstances both presently and going forward.

An examination of the existing Third Sector Major Grant Scheme concluded that it imposes excessive constraints, involves cumbersome administration and operates within tight boundaries, without fostering inventive approaches to delivery.

Presently, approximately £380,000 is handed out yearly to 13 bodies under this arrangement.

The revised framework will provide triennial funding worth a maximum of £280,000 alongside twelve-month awards capped at £100,000.

Submissions will undergo assessment by a recently established grants committee through a streamlined application process that evaluates how suggested activities correspond with the Deal’s aims.

Separately, Welsh Government Housing Support Grants ranging from £1,000 to £10,000 can be accessed for ventures focused on stopping people from becoming homeless.

Those seeking additional details can join an online briefing on Thursday, July 23 between 2pm and 3pm, or attend an informal session at Panteg House in Pontypool on Thursday, July 30 from 3pm until 5pm.