January 20, 2025 We are thrilled to announce that Community Solutions North West has secured a significant grant that will allow us to continue our mission of empowering individuals and fostering positive change in our community! This incredible win is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and vision of our team, partners, and supporters. ‍ The grant, one of the largest we've ever received, will go towards the renovation of Elmfield Hall, a Grade II listed site that was the home of Victorian industrialist Frederick Albert Gatty, who helped invent new dyes. ‍ The grant will help to secure the future use of the building as a "vital community hub," said Maggie Moody, CEO of Community Solutions North West. “With this funding, we can further our efforts to tackle the most pressing issues facing our community, from social isolation, loneliness, and mental health support. We want to thank the Community Ownership Fund for recognising the importance of the work we do and investing in our vision for a brighter, more equitable community. This partnership will allow us to continue making a real difference where it's needed most, directly benefitting the individuals and families we serve.” ‍ For over 14 years, and exactly 10 years since the charity signed a 125-year lease at Elmfield Hall, Community Solutions North West has been dedicated to creating lasting, meaningful impact. This grant provides us with the opportunity to continue to renovate Elmfield Hall and make it more sustainable for future use. ‍ Sarah Smith, MP for Hyndburn and Haslingden, said: "Community Solutions is an invaluable asset to the people of Hyndburn. One of my first meetings after being elected was with Maggie, whose passion and dedication embody the spirit of this organisation." ‍ "I’ve worked closely with the government on this vital issue, and I’m incredibly proud to have helped secure the funding needed to support our community. As a local MP, I remain deeply committed to securing investment for our constituency. I’m immensely grateful to the government for sharing this commitment and turning it into meaningful action." ‍ The Community Ownership Fund was set up in 2021 to help communities take control of local assets that were at risk. This was the final round of the funding. ‍ Alex Norris, Minister for Local Growth, said: “The grants were to help preserve and upgrade what these vital places offer to their communities." ‍ This grant represents more than just financial support; it is a powerful statement of belief in the work we do involving our community and our fantastic team of volunteers. ‍ The Community Ownership Fund grant sees two of Hyndburn’s voluntary organisations securing investment in key local heritage assets: Community Solutions North West with £435,446 Hyndburn Leisure, who received £250,000 from the Community Ownership Fund and £120,000 in capital investment from Hyndburn Council to transform Great Harwood’s cherished Mercer Hall. Councillor Kimberley Whitehead, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and Arts, said: "We are delighted to welcome this investment in Elmfield Hall, a cherished Council-owned building that has been leased to Community Solutions North West for many years. Community Solutions North West have transformed Elmfield Hall, a beautiful building located in one of our 11 Green Flag parks, into a thriving facility used by many residents from Church, Accrington and across the borough. This grant highlights their incredible efforts and will ensure the building continues to serve as a vital community hub for many more years. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this funding will have on our community." ‍ This grant marks an exciting new chapter for Community Solutions North West. We are motivated more than ever to continue our mission of creating positive change and strengthening our community. We are excited to embark on this journey, and we look forward to sharing updates as we begin our renovations. ‍ Stay tuned for more updates and ways to get involved! Your continued support is vital to our success. ‍ Photo Sarah Smith, MP for Hyndburn and Haslingden, Cllr Kim Whitehead, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Heritage and Arts, Stewart Eaves, Councilor for Church, Lyndsey Sims, CEO of Hyndburn Leisure, and Chris Emmerson, Enterprise Development Manager of Community Solutions, celebrate the grant win at Elmfield Hall, home to Community Solutions North West.