The funding programme, administered by the Government’s appointed National Lottery organisation, supports all aspects of heritage in the country, from historic buildings and museums to archives, nature conservation and oral history. Both capital grants for building and equipment, and grants for time-limited activity are provided. For the period 2002-2007 there are four aims for the fund: encourage more people to be involved and make decisions about their heritage; conserve and enhance the country’s diverse heritage; ensure that everyone can learn about, have access to and enjoy their heritage; and, achieve a more equitable distribution of grants across the country. Heritage includes people as well as places, so the funding also covers cultural and local traditions.

There are a wide range of grant-giving schemes targeted at particular types of heritage, or themes which are designed for different types and sizes of project. Two of these schemes – Awards for All and the Local Heritage Initiative – are specially intended to support heritage projects run by small local groups. Support is given for activities that support work designed to care for the heritage and to help people experience it. Support is also given for activities that will increase people’s understanding and enjoyment of our heritage. These activities must be on top of the normal work of an organisation and be completed within five years.

Yorkshire and the Humber provides a microcosm of heritage interests unparalleled in England; from heritage coasts, national parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, to historic town centres. Industrial heritage abounds, with reminders of coal mining, steel making, wool textiles and deep sea fishing.

The Rockingham pottery collection in Rotherham has recently benefited from Heritage Lottery Fund grants.

General information about projects supported by the National Lottery New Opportunities Fund in Rotherham is available from the Partnership Office. Contact Ian Squires, SRB 5/6 Scheme Manager:
Telephone: 01709 310 499
Email: srb6manager@rotherhamnow.co.uk

Specific information about applying for monies from the Fund is available from the National Lottery office in London, or from the Heritage Lottery Fund website www.hlf.org.uk.
National Lottery Funding Hotline: 0845 275 0000
Email: goodcauses@nof.org.uk