This funding is for secondary and SEND schools in the counties of Herefordshire and Worcestershire (middle deemed secondary can also apply). Secondary and SEND schools across the two counties have been identified and prioritised according to the following data, although all schools can apply:

• Number of pupils eligible for Free School Meals
• Percentage of SEND pupils
• Schools within a close proximity to IMD 1-4 areas

Schools may apply for up to £10,000 per year. They must open up their facilities to the community/public for a minimum of 12 weeks (6 weeks for swimming activities). There should be a focus on long-term, sustainable plans. This funding is revenue spend only. No capital spend will be allowed. The grant can be used for:

• Purchasing booking systems
• Development of websites
• Short-term staffing
• CPD for staff
• Purchasing additional equipment and resources
• (Moveable) Storage
• Improving security to the facility to ensure it can open
• Purchasing swimming pool water testing kits and plant servicing, following guidance from Swim England
• Swimming activities can be delivered both during the school day, before and after school, evenings, weekends and holidays
• Holiday activity, in conjunction with HAF and other programmes, but must target new participants
• New or additional activity to what is already taking place - this is a requirement

If operating a dual use site, the funding must go to the school and not the external provider, however they may work in partnership to ensure there is an increase in school and community users.

Please note: The funding CANNOT be spent on capital. Where schools have an existing capitalisation policy, this should be used to determine whther proposed spending would be capital expenditure.