Grimsby Community Research Programme Secures Nearly £1 Million Funding

A community research initiative situated in Grimsby has received funding amounting to just under £1 million. This financial allocation is designated for the East Marsh Community Research Network, which intends to address various challenges, such as those pertaining to economic conditions, public health, and environmental matters. The execution of this programme will be overseen by The Young Foundation, a non-profit entity recognized for its expertise in community research and social innovation. Helen Goulden, the chief executive, stated: “We know that local communities understand local needs best.” She further commented: “The insights gained from East Marsh Community Research Network and other local research networks will be vital if we are to work together to tackle some of the persistent and entrenched challenges we face.” This funding originates from the Community Research Networks programme, which receives financial backing from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). The funds are intended for the training and enhancement of skills among community members, enabling them to guide and influence the future direction of the East Marsh. The East Marsh network represents one of nine community initiatives throughout the UK that have secured funding. Additional recipients include a network addressing rural issues in Durham and a collective investigating economic disparities within Belfast communities. Killian Troy-Donovan, who serves as programme manager at Our Future—an organization dedicated to uniting local leaders and communities—remarked: “We know what is possible when people have space to explore the questions that matter to them.” He further stated: “The East Marsh Community Research Network will build on the vast knowledge that exists locally, empowering people who have been exploring these questions for much of their lives.”