Embracing The Power of Partnerships – Green Spaces Fund
Introduction
The Greater Manchester Green Spaces Fund is a transformative initiative aimed at improving local green spaces, enhancing community well-being, and fostering sustainable environmental practices across the Greater Manchester area. The fund supports grassroots community groups by providing them with resources to develop and sustain green spaces in their neighbourhoods, particularly in areas with the greatest need.
Groundwork Greater Manchester has played a pivotal role in the success of this program. As the lead organization, we have brought together five environmental organizations, each of which nominated a Green Space Fund Advisor, tasked with guiding and supporting community groups through the application and project delivery process.
Green Space Advisors
A Green Space Fund Advisor was allocated to work closely with community groups in one borough of Greater Manchester, helping turn their green space visions into reality. The advisors offered tailored support, ensuring that the projects were not only completed but also sustainable, impactful, and aligned with the fund’s goals. They empowered grassroots community groups by acting as critical friends, helping local people navigate the complexities of the application process and project delivery.
In Rochdale and Wigan, Groundwork hosted two Green Space Advisors, Sam and Abbie. They worked directly with groups such as Newbold Community Growing Together and The Brick, providing the necessary tools and knowledge to ensure their projects could thrive.
Groundwork’s Role in the Partnership
Groundwork’s Partnerships Manager, Aimee Brough united the partnership of environmental organizations to great success and her leadership was widely recognized as the glue that held the project together. One advisor remarked, “Undoubtedly, Aimee as Project Manager is the glue that holds it all together and directs the project exceptionally well – all credit to Aimee for this.”
The success of the Greater Manchester Green Spaces Fund is a testament to the effectiveness of a well-coordinated partnership, driven by strong leadership and a shared commitment to creating positive environmental and community outcomes.
Bi-weekly advisor meetings provided a platform where issues could be raised and addressed efficiently, as one advisor highlighted: “The bi-weekly advisor meetings were really proactive and beneficial. I felt that all points that I raised were noted down and were actioned.”
And the collaborative approach brought together a diverse range of skills and connections that enhanced the overall impact of the programme. As one advisor noted, “The partnership has been fantastic as a way to learn alongside a group of amazing advisors with a wide range of skill sets, and a range of connections.”
Building the Green Space Fund Network
In addition, Groundwork organized several networking events that brought together Green Space Fund Advisors, community groups, and their broader networks. These events created valuable opportunities for participants to share their experiences, learn from one another, and be inspired by the successes and challenges faced by others.
