Object
The Object of the Trust is to promote renewable and efficient energy and not-for- profit projects that conserve or improve the environment within a ten-mile radius of Bicker Fen in the Borough of Boston, although priority may be given to projects within five miles.
Guidelines
Generally, grants are available for practical or educational projects that either contribute to conservation, energy efficiency or environmental improvements or raise awareness in those areas. Grants are not available for fossil fuel projects (oil or gas boilers etc)
Examples of Fundable Projects:
- Education: Attending environmental courses, workshops and events. Cost of materials for schools projects
- Community Facilities: Ground improvements (ponds, wildlife, ecology, sensory gardens); environmental schemes (recycling, composting, worm farms); energy efficiency for community buildings; reduction in car use (bicycling, health walks).
- Energy Efficiency Promotion: Ground source energy schemes, rain harvesting, solar panels and cost-effective heating systems (including top up grants).
- Biodiversity: Species support (bats and bird boxes); habitat creation (hedges, woodland, fens, ponds, meadows)
Funds
We aim to distribute around £30,000 a year. Grants up to £5,000. Applicants can be not for profit community groups or social enterprises that support community activity. They should not be statutory agencies or for equipment that would ultimately lead to individual gain (e.g. solar panels, wind turbines on private homes) or businesses. Thus, an application to fund a school project should come from the Parent Teachers Association, for example, and not direct from the Education Authority.
Process
The grant scheme is managed by the Lincolnshire Community Foundation (charity number 1196448), a grant making Trust. The Bicker Trust operates under the umbrella of the Foundation and is made up of an elected member from Boston Borough Council, 4 representatives from the Parishes of Bicker, Swineshead and Donington and a representative from the Foundation. The Panel meets twice a year to consider grant applications. Closing dates are on 1April and 1October each year.
Please always apply using the most up to date application form, available to print or download on our website. Applications are processed and presented to the Panel by the Foundation approximately 6 weeks after the closing date. Applicants should receive an outcome within a week of the meeting.
When completing the application form (preferably as an electronic version, however you may print and complete the application form in writing where necessary – please read and follow the guidance notes to help you structure your application.