A COMMUNITY funding scheme in Worcestershire has helped provide welcome funds for a Pershore based angling club.
Platform Housing Group – one of the largest housing associations in the region – has donated funds to Angling for All, a Pershore based fishing club.
The organisers applied to Platform’s Community Chest, a funding pot for Platform customers and local charities, clubs and other not-for-profit organisations for any projects directly benefitting Platform customers.
All applications are assessed against specific eligibility criteria by customers who sit on its Customer Voice Panel.
The angling club – which was set up in 2001 – features competitions, regular outings and free lessons for beginners. The club is open to all, including disabled anglers and people who have never fished before.
Mike Hope from Angling for All said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this grant from Platform Housing Group.
“With the funds we aim to put on extra events and initiatives; being outdoors and enjoying the environment has such a positive impact on people’s mental health.
“Thanks to this funding, we will be able to reach new people, helping them to form friendships and develop new skills.”
The club has a long standing relationship with Platform. In 2022, the social landlord sponsored an angling activity and such was its success, further funding was granted to hold events in 2023.
Interest continued to increase – from experienced anglers and specifically under 16 newcomer events – with more than 100 people attending, citing health benefits and friendships formed.
During 2024, interest and demand for these events remained high with more events arranged, some in conjunction with charitable organisations and families on low incomes, with people from all genders and those with disabilities taking part.
With increased interest, the organisers formed a partnership with national body, The Angling Trust, becoming part of its Get Fishing Award Scheme.
The award scheme was aimed at new anglers who were awarded diplomas as they advanced through skills based tuition. Attendance increased by 45 per cent with further events planned for the coming year.
Marion Duffy, Chief Operations Officer at Platform Housing Group said: “Bringing people together is so important for our communities.
“We are so glad we have been able to support the group with much needed funds to continue what they do so well within their local community.”
