Watch my speech calling for the Government to restore the Community Ownership Fund

The Community Ownership Fund was launched in 2021 to help community groups take ownership of assets that were at risk of being lost.

It was originally due to close at the end of March this year, but last December, the Government suddenly shut the fund, despite it having only allocated £135m of the originally announced £150m.

In the three years, the COF was in place, it saved thousands of cherished communities sites and helped community groups generate income, build financial stability and strengthen community ties.

Restoring the fund is an absolute must, particularly nowadays with community cohesion frayed and division being fostered in society.

That is why I introduced an amendment to the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill calling for the COF’s restoration – you can watch my speech about this below.