Community groups, schools, charities and neighbourhood projects across Kirkby are being invited to apply for a share of the £50,000 Kirkby Neighbourhood Community Fund.
The fund supports wellbeing and environmental projects within the communities of Northwood, Cherryfield, Shevington, Whitefield, and Prescot North. The initiative is linked to the Knowsley Rail Transfer Station, operated by SUEZ recycling and recovery UK on behalf of Merseyside Recycling and Waste Authority (MRWA).
In 2024, 11 projects were awarded funding, benefitting thousands of Kirkby residents. Successful applicants included:
- Kirkby Milers AC for a youth fitness and wellbeing initiative.
- Kindred LCR, which established a women-led community hub.
- Knowsley Foodbank, which launched a circular food-growing project with greenhouses and chickens.
- Mind Connect, offering free mental health hubs and education sessions.
- Tower Hill ABC, which expanded its boxing club and built a hub for elderly residents.
Now in its eighth year, the fund was set up as part of an agreement between Merseyside Energy Recovery Limited (MERL) – of which SUEZ is a shareholder – and MRWA. Household residual waste from across Merseyside and Halton is transported from Knowsley Rail Transfer Station for energy generation, with 10p for every tonne of waste transported donated to the fund each year.
Not-for-profit groups, charities, and community organisations operating in the eligible areas are encouraged to apply for funding.
The deadline for 2025 applications is Friday 25 July 2025.
Those interested in applying are invited to attend a drop in morning on Wednesday 25 June from 9.30am to 1pm, where they can meet the team, ask questions, and get guidance on submitting a strong application. No booking required. The drop in is at the SUEZ office, Knowsley Industrial Estate, Knowsley RTLS, Woodward Road, Kirkby L33 7UZ
Further details about the fund, including application forms and application guidance notes, can be found at: www.suezmerseyside.co.uk/kirkbyfund
Pictured: Kirkby fund recipients 2024.