Devon Cricket Clubs eligible for development grants

Cricket Clubs across Devon are being encouraged to apply for the 2025 Discretionary development Grants, issued in partnership with the David Shepherd Cricket Trust.

In 2024, six grant awards were made at a sum in excess of £2,200, and the list of projects available for endorsement include junior cricket, coach development, women and girls’ cricket, digital scoring and disability cricket.

The Tolchards Devon Cricket League statement said: “The League is delighted to announce that the David Shepherd Cricket Trust (DSCT) will continue as our partners. Clubs should note that they must be in membership of the DSCT in order to be eligible for support from this scheme. The maximum level of grant has now increased from £350.00 to £500.00

“The scheme’s primary aim is to support member clubs who are either starting, or expanding their club junior section, or who are providing opportunities for women and girls, or those with disabilities. We recognise that encouraging additional volunteer resource in support of this work is critical, therefore schemes that include innovative ways of volunteer recruitment and retention will be encouraged.

“The scheme will also consider support for clubs wishing to adopt digital on-line scoring and the training and education of young officials.

“For further guidance clubs may contact a member of the Development Sub Committee for advice.”

Aims

• To assist clubs in starting a junior section or team. This applies where none has been run previously or for at least two years.
• To assist clubs in expanding a junior section. For example, running additional age group teams or transitioning from ECB All Stars or Dynamos into hardball cricket.
• To support coach development through the provision of coach bursaries.
• To assist clubs in starting a women/girls’ team or section.
• To assist clubs in starting a Disability team or section.
• To help a special needs individual within the club/community environment.
• To assist clubs with a specific special development project in relation to juniors, women and girls’ development and disability cricket.
• To support clubs to move to digital on-line scoring systems.
• To support the training and education of young officials.

Criteria

• Clubs may claim up to 50% of the total project cost, to a maximum of £500.00.
• Clubs starting a junior section must be compliant with Safe Hands Management System (SHMS).
• The scheme must have the support of the Devon Cricket Foundation (formerly the Devon Cricket Board).
• Clubs must be in membership of the David Shepherd Cricket Trust.

Funding can be used for

• Coach bursaries (to attend ECB Support Coach, ECB Foundation 1 Coach, ECB Core Coach or relevant workshops).
• Named coach(es) delivering a minimum of 30 hours for the project in the current year.
• Equipment purchases towards the cost of cricket for juniors, women and those with disabilities.
• Other innovative ideas with prior approval of the Development Sub Committee.

Funding cannot be used for

• Ground rent
• Rates
• Ground rental or hire.
• Payment of players
• Payment of individuals (other than above).
• Payment towards volunteer expenses
• Any other regular club outgoings

Visit Devon Cricket League website for an application form