CFFC and Visits Unlimited – Access Fund Evaluation Tender
Introduction and context of the Access Funds
Following the severe floods in Calderdale in 2015, the CFFC raised £1.6 million, which was doubled by government support. Since then, over £300,000 has been raised for the Watermark Fund to support future flood recovery. The Foundation has provided significant grants to over 1600 households, 200 businesses, and various charities and sports clubs to help rebuild after the floods.
The Hebden Bridge Access Fund received £59,000, a collaboration between CFFC, Visits Unlimited, Hebden Bridge Partnership, and Hebden Bridge Access Forum. This fund aimed to improve accessibility for people with mobility issues, particularly following flood defence works. Businesses applied for grants, with audits conducted to recommend improvements. A total of 19 grants were awarded, with over £55,000 invested in accessibility improvements. One legacy of this project is the publication of an accessibility map by the Hebden Bridge Disability Action Forum.
Accessible Calderdale Project
Following the closure of the Calder Valley Club in 2017, CFFC used its remaining assets to support accessibility improvements in Calderdale. After consulting with local communities, CFFC allocated up to £90,000 over three years for projects focusing on:
- Developing partnerships and networks.
- Raising awareness and providing guidance on accessibility.
- Conducting access audits for community groups.
- Offering small grants for accessibility improvements.
Visits Unlimited was chosen to deliver the programme, and over 50 access audits have been conducted, with 30 grants awarded. The wider work includes disability awareness training, support for local authority projects, and community initiatives to reduce isolation.
Evaluation Purpose
CFFC seeks an evaluation of the impact of the Access funds since 2017. The evaluation should consider both physical accessibility and access to information and guidance, with a focus on whether the project has helped reduce barriers for people with various disabilities. The evaluation should also examine the sustainability of the project’s impact and the partnerships formed.
Deliverables and Timeline
The evaluation should include case studies and be completed by May 2025, with a total fee of £10,000 available. Interested parties should submit their tender by 25th October 2024, demonstrating relevant experience and providing a timeline of work.
