Funding helps hundreds
From young carers to sexual violence survivors, our joint fund with Braintree District Council is helping hundreds of local people.
The Braintree District and Eastlight Community Fund was set up in 2015 by Braintree District Council and Eastlight (then Greenfields). More than one million pounds has been given in grants since then, with eight organisations funded this year.
They include Action for Family Carers, which is receiving £20,000 to help keep their Young Carers Club in Witham running. Young Carers Service Manager, Jo Hotten, said: “One in five school children are estimated to be young carers. They take on demanding responsibilities normally expected of an adult, which can be hugely worrying and stressful.
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“Our Witham Young Carers Club enables around 25 young carers per year to take a much-needed break from caring, make new friends with other local young carers, and simply have fun!"
New Halstead homes are complete
Residents are settling into their new homes after the completion of Mount Hill in Halstead, Essex – our first Eastlight-led development.
Access to good quality, affordable housing is key to supporting the wellbeing of residents.
That’s why all 71 of these homes are allocated as affordable housing, unlike the usual 30% housing developers usually allocate.This aims to give residents the foundations for a fresh new start in an energy-efficient, high-quality home.
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Mum-of-two, Charlea Norris, 29, moved to Mount Hill last year.
She said: “We were unable to get a mortgage big enough for the house we needed. We would have never been able to have a house like this without the scheme.
“I think it's important more houses and schemes become available. It is important people have the chance to be able to own their own homes and be able to afford it and live. It gives families a good opportunity and a chance to provide a roof over their heads without getting into financial struggles and worries.”
