Cornish Lithium Invests in Community Wellbeing with £17,775 in Local Grants

In a significant move that underscores its commitment to both the environment and local communities, Cornish Lithium, a key player in the UK’s mineral exploration and development sector, has announced the awarding of £17,775 in grants to 13 community groups across Cornwall. This initiative, executed in partnership with the Cornwall Community Foundation, aims to bolster the company’s social and environmental efforts within regions close to its operations.

The beneficiaries, selected for their dedication to enhancing various aspects of community life, range from educational and social welfare projects to environmental improvement and health initiatives. The grants are part of the Cornish Lithium Community Fund, designed to support organisations within the Gwennap, Blackwater, Chacewater, St Day, Carharrack, and China Clay areas, striving to make a positive impact.

The 2024 recipients of the Cornish Lithium Community Fund are diverse, reflecting the company’s broad focus on community welfare. They include:

• The Observatory for Cornwall, set to refurbish its stargazing domes to promote astronomy among youth and those with learning disabilities.
• Penhaligon’s Friends, which will facilitate monthly support groups for bereaved families with young children in Blackwater.
• St Stephen’s Community Centre, aiming to reduce heating costs and improve its welcoming atmosphere by replacing doors and windows.
• Sunny Days Nursery and Preschool in St Day, which plans to enrich its outdoor space with new play equipment to aid children’s emotional and social development.
• St Agnes Walking Netball Club, looking to expand by training additional walking netball hosts.
• St Dennis Art Group, which will use the funds for running costs, helping seniors engage in art.
• Lanner Village Hall, set to establish an internet cafe to improve digital literacy among locals.
• Cusgarne and Frogpool Women’s Institute, which will visit environmental and wellbeing-promoting venues.
• Treviscoe Institute and Community Centre, which plans to purchase laptops and install WiFi for its users.
• Bugle Library of Things, focusing on alleviating social isolation and supporting community needs.
• Friends of Cusgarne Primary School, aiming to create a mini nature reserve.
• I.C.E. (Improving Carharrack’s Environment), which will enhance its festive community events.
• Roche Preschool Playgroup, planning to create a new baby room to expand childcare availability.

Jeremy Wrathall, Founder and CEO of Cornish Lithium, emphasises the importance of community consultation and involvement in their operations, aligning with the company’s proactive approach to social and environmental stewardship in Cornwall.

Tamas Haydu, CEO of the Cornwall Community Foundation, expressed delight in distributing the funds on behalf of Cornish Lithium, highlighting the shared commitment to fostering positive, lasting impacts on the communities around the project areas.

This funding initiative reflects Cornish Lithium’s broader mission to support the UK’s transition to Net Zero by 2050 through sustainable mineral extraction practices while also ensuring the well-being of local communities. The grants aim not only to address immediate community needs but also to lay the groundwork for enduring social and environmental benefits.

For community groups seeking support, further information on funding opportunities can be found on the Cornwall Community Foundation’s website, with application details available through the Cornish Lithium portal. A summer application deadline will be announced, followed by an autumn review panel, ensuring that awards are granted at the beginning of each year, continuing the cycle of community enhancement and support.