Two community projects in Hitchin are set to benefit from £3,000 in funding after grants were approved by North Hertfordshire District Council, following recommendations from the Hitchin Community Forum.

The funding, agreed at the forum meeting on 9 December and approved via a delegated decision, will support projects focused on inclusion, wellbeing and improved community facilities in the town.

Support for LGBTQ+ wellbeing in Hitchin

Local organisation Impactful Lives has been awarded £1,500 to deliver a series of monthly gatherings for LGBTQ+ residents in Hitchin and across North Herts.

The funding will support six 'Queers and Peers Hitchin' sessions, designed to reduce isolation and support mental wellbeing. Activities will include hands-on workshops, stress-management techniques, facilitated discussions and skill-sharing sessions focused on living healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Grant funding will help cover venue hire, activity costs and staff outreach time. Feedback from local LGBTQ+ residents and organisations has highlighted a clear need for more inclusive and safe community spaces in Hitchin.

Alexandre Oliveira, Manager at Impactful Lives, said: "We're delighted to receive this support from North Herts Council. Impactful Lives, Hertfordshire's only LGBTQ+ and disability charity, provides safe spaces where, alongside fun activities, we are embedding knowledge to inspire creativity, promote self-development and curiosity, support both mental and physical well-being and community cohesion."

Improved facilities at St Mary's Church

St Mary's Church Hitchin has also received £1,500 towards the installation of new toilet facilities within the historic church building.

The project will deliver one fully accessible toilet, three additional toilet stalls, utility and storage areas, and new mains drainage and water supply. The church currently has no toilet or washing facilities.

A prominent Hitchin landmark, St Mary's hosts concerts, civic services, commemorations and fundraising events. The new facilities will improve accessibility, address safeguarding concerns and support increased community use of the space. Completion is planned for the first quarter of 2026.

Anne Senechal, Churchwarden, said: "St Mary's is delighted to receive this grant from NHDC, which symbolises the wider community support for a much-needed improvement to the basic facilities in the church. The building is a huge asset for local people and we hope that the completion of this project will highlight how important its role is for the area."

Council commitment to community spaces

Cllr Daniel Allen, Executive Member for Governance, said the funding reflects the range of needs within Hitchin's communities. "These grants reflect the diverse needs of our communities — from supporting wellbeing and inclusion, to improving accessibility in much-loved local buildings. We are pleased to support projects in Hitchin that help people connect and make community spaces more welcoming for all."

For more information about grant funding opportunities, residents can visit the community grants section on the North Herts Council website.