Worcestershire-based charity, the Prime Foundation, has wrapped up its annual funding round by awarding grants to seven local community projects aimed at improving education, health and social wellbeing across the county.
Earlier this year, the Foundation received over 70 applications from groups working in areas such as education, physical and mental health, and social support. With such a strong response, the Board of Trustees decided to spread the funding across a range of deserving projects that would make a tangible difference within the community.
Among the recipients is ASPIE, a social and support group for adults with autism based in Worcester, which received funding to purchase equipment for its art therapy group. Julia Micklewright, Founder of ASPIE, explained: “Art therapy offers comfort and a creative outlet for members who often struggle with processing emotions. This funding will enable us to expand our program and take part in local art events, enhancing our members’ lives.”
Freedom Day Centre, which provides services for adults with learning disabilities, secured funding to buy tools and a shed to support a social enterprise initiative. This project uses recycled wood to create products for sale, offering valuable skill-building opportunities for participants.
Maggs, a charity supporting those at risk of homelessness in Worcester, received funds to bolster their accommodation project, which helps vulnerable individuals find safe and secure housing.
In Redditch, 1st Redditch Scouts will use their grant to purchase essential first aid training equipment, including a defibrillator and choking vest. “This equipment will help equip nearly 300 Scouts across six local groups with the skills and confidence to respond in emergency situations,” said Sallie-Ann Barnett, Group Lead Volunteer.
Three schools across Worcestershire also benefited from the Prime Foundation’s support. Vale of Evesham will purchase outdoor play and sensory equipment for its early years program, while Dyson Perrins C of E Academy will enhance its wellbeing garden to support students’ mental health.
At Lindridge St Lawrence CE Primary School, a donation will go towards new football goals and kits. Katy Hurst, Finance and Office Administrator, shared: “This funding allows us to properly integrate football into our PE curriculum, promote girls’ football and encourage outdoor physical activity for all students, boosting both their mental and physical wellbeing.”
The Prime Foundation, established in 2007 by healthcare property developer Prime, invests in local communities where Prime has developed new facilities. A portion of Prime’s profits from each project is donated to the Foundation, which then allocates funds to support meaningful local initiatives.
Prime’s commitment to supporting the Worcestershire community extends beyond the Foundation’s grants. The company holds B Corp certification, joining a global movement of businesses redefining success by prioritising purpose alongside profit. As one of the first in its industry to measure and report on environmental and social impact, Prime continues to lead by example in creating a positive legacy through its corporate activities and developments.
For more information on Prime’s B Corp journey and its dedication to sustainability and social impact, read the recently published 2024 Impact Report: https://www.primeplc.com/sustainability-social-good/b-corp-certified/