Local arts group secures more than a quarter of a million pounds to support women and girls in Calderdale

Verd de Gris Arts has secured £357,607 from the National Lottery Community Fund to expand its work supporting socially disconnected women and girls across the borough over the next five years.

The funding announcement was made at an International Women’s Day event held on Friday (March 6), which was attended by Kate Dearden MP, West Yorkshire Police officers, school students and many more local guests.

The funding will be used to grow the group’s FIBRE project, which is a creative programme designed to bring women and girls together to build confidence, resilience, and stronger community connections through the arts.

The funding will also support the group’s One Voice Collective, supporting more women to connect, develop leadership skills, and shape conversations around the issues which affect their lives.

Sharon Marsden, Co-Founder of Verd de Gris Arts, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to receive this support from The National Lottery Community Fund.

“Celebrating this news on International Women’s Day with the incredible women of One Voice Collective made it even more special.

“Hearing their words, stories, and performances reminded us why this work matters so much.

“This funding will allow us to reach more women and girls across Calderdale, helping them build confidence, connection, and a powerful voice within their communities.

“We are incredibly grateful to The National Lottery for making this work possible.”

More information can be found on the group’s website at: https://www.verddegris.org/