Southampton Airport has launched a welfare fund to support the health of the population in Hampshire.
On 16 August, the airport committed £100,000 to establish the Spitfire Wellbeing Fund, dedicated to promoting health and wellbeing efforts and reducing health inequalities in society.
The fund will provide financial support to local charities, groups and organisations that run initiatives that encourage physical activity, improve mental wellbeing and promote access to open spaces.
The airport has stated that the funds will be concentrated on the areas most affected by aircraft noise.
An independent board comprising representatives from the district and city authorities in Eastleigh, Southampton and Winchester, as well as representatives from Southampton Airport in an administrative capacity, will manage the Prosperity Fund.
The Spitfire Wellbeing Fund Board reviews awards quarterly, with a maximum amount capped at £5,000 per application.
The Board will conduct periodic reviews to adjust the criteria and boundaries in response to potential shifts in the contour map over time.
The website provides a full overview of the application process (both in an online form and a downloadable version) as well as detailed funding guidelines.
The partnership behind the Spitfire Wellbeing Fund includes Eastleigh Borough Council, Southampton City Council, Winchester City Council, Hampshire County Council and Southampton Airport.
Gavin Williams, Managing Director of Southampton Airport, said: “The airport has always played an active role in supporting the communities it serves. Our staff often volunteer to support local initiatives such as youth projects, or help restore or clean up and improve local natural areas. They also help raise much-needed funds through events such as our popular Runway Runs, or take the time to host or visit local schools.
“The vast majority of those employed in our operations live locally, so it is incredibly important to each and every one of us that our neighbouring communities continue to share in the many social and economic benefits that Southampton Airport offers.
“And the launch of this independent welfare fund will ensure that even more local groups and good causes can share in our success as we continue to restore the connectivity that plays a vital role in supporting the economy in the Hampshire region.”
