The Rochdale Communities Fund is a mutual fund to invest in and strengthen Rochdale Borough’s VCFSE sector. It funds groups and projects which directly benefit local people and communities, delivered by VCFSE organisations with roots in the borough.
All grant decisions over £1,000 are made by a community panel, who review and assess funding applications against established criteria.
In our commitment to fairness, equity, and transparency in funding decisions, we are looking to develop and expand our community panel by bringing together a diverse group of individuals from the community who have a range of knowledge and experience and have a passion for supporting impactful projects and initiatives in the Rochdale borough.
Role Overview:
As a Funding Panelist, you will play a crucial role in evaluating funding applications submitted by local VCFSE organisations. You will assess how feasible, impactful, and aligned the proposals are with our funding priorities and goals. Your insights and expertise will help ensure that funding decisions are made fairly and transparently, getting funding to VCFSE organisations who can make the most difference for our communities.
Key Responsibilities:
- A commitment to attend roughly three panel sessions per year (Two-year term, starting January 2025). These will take place online unless stated. Panel dates will be given with as much advance notice as possible.
- Review and assess funding applications against established criteria prior to the panel session.
- Provide detailed feedback and scores on application strengths and weaknesses.
- Participate in panel discussions to deliberate on funding decisions.
- Collaborate with fellow panelists to reach consensus on funding priorities.
- Maintain confidentiality and impartiality throughout the decision process.
Desired Skills:
- Understanding and knowledge of the Rochdale borough and a passion for supporting communities to thrive.
- Ability to consider different viewpoints and interests.
- Commitment to fairness, equity, and transparency in funding decisions.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team setting.
Benefits:
- Opportunity to ensure funding reaches impactful projects and initiatives.
- Networking with organisations and individuals from across the borough.
- An insight into fair and open grant making processes in line with IVAR principles.
- An increased overview of the great work happening across Rochdale.
How to apply:
If you are interested in becoming a member of our Community Panel, please complete our short, online Expression of Interest form using the link below:
Deadline for Expressions of Interest:
The deadline to submit your expression of interest is: Sunday 22 December 2024
It is expected that decisions will be made by Monday 20 January 2025, following the festive break, with all participants being invited to a Panel Induction Session in early February.