David West Trust small grants

During the first year of operation, the Trust received 84 applications from across Northern Ireland (and further afield) and decided to award 8 grants. For 2007, in light of the experience we gained during the first call, we have decided to modify slightly the categories, and some of the details surrounding the second call for applications.

As before, we are therefore offering individuals the chance to apply for grants of up to £500 to assist them with personal or professional development in the following broad categories:

Categories for 2007 :

1. Disability (focusing in particular on rheumatoid arthritis)
2. Cancer
3. Carers
4. Individuals facing social exclusion (on the basis of homelessness, sexuality or ethnicity)

Grants could cover a range of items:

• Fees for education/training purposes
• Travel
• Respite breaks for individuals providing care
• Purchase of books or a piece of equipment

This list is not exhaustive, and the Trust will consider applications for other items, as long as the application relates to one of the above 4 categories, and that a good case is made to support it. All we ask is that applicants are able to show that there will be some improvement to their lives from the grant, and that they let us know what they did with the grant.

Depending on the level of interest, we may need to interview applicants before reaching final decisions. Proteus hope to give out 6 grants in 2007. Alternatively, if you know someone who you feel would be deserving of an award, but might be reluctant to apply themselves, you can apply on their behalf. We will also accept nominations from locally-based groups on behalf of individuals.

Copies of the forms are also available by post from

Proteus NI Ltd,
8 Edgewater Office Park
Belfast,
BT3 9JQ

Telephone 9037 1023.

Applications should be returned by June 1st at the latest.

Some additional guidance for applicants and nominators :

1. Grants are intended for individuals, not groups
2. Applications should be for one category only, and at least one category must be selected.
3. Applicants or individuals being nominated must reside in Northern Ireland
4. Grants are not retrospective – if the proposed activity has already taken place, the equipment has been purchased or the course has already begun, then please do not apply for a grant.
5. Grants are intended to cover items or activities for which other funding (including statutory) is not available. You will be asked about this on the new application form.
6. Normally, the Trust will pay on invoice from the supplier, or on production of receipts. If this poses particular difficulties, the Trust will try to accommodate successful applicants by liaising with suppliers.
7. In the case of computer hardware or other large equipment, the Trust may decide to purchase these items on behalf of successful applicants, in order to ensure value for money.
8. Grants will be for one year only, and successful applicants may not reapply in subsequent years.
9. Successful applicants must agree to allow the award to be publicised at the discretion of the Trust.
10. The Trust awards are discretionary, and decisions are final. There is no right to appeal.

Download Application Form (Downloadable file: MS Word 48KB)

Download Nomination Form (Downloadable file: MS Word 52KB)

For more information please visit the Proteus website at http://www.proteus-ni.org/