APPLICATION GUIDELINES MEASURE 1: SOCIAL ENTERPRISE MEASURE 2: TRAINING AND SUPPORT FOR CARERS

Transcription

1 Dormant Accounts Fund APPLICATION GUIDELINES MEASURE 1: SOCIAL ENTERPRISE MEASURE 2: TRAINING AND SUPPORT FOR CARERS

2 Dormant Accounts Fund Background The Dormant Accounts Acts , together with the Unclaimed Life Assurance Policies Act 2003, provide a framework for the administration of unclaimed accounts in credit institutions (i.e. banks, building societies and An Post) and unclaimed life assurance policies in insurance undertakings. The main purpose of the legislation is to reunite account or policy holders with their funds in credit institutions or insurance undertakings and bodies are required to take steps to identify and contact the owners of dormant accounts and unclaimed life assurance policies. However, in order to put the unused funds in dormant accounts and unclaimed policies to best use, the legislation also introduced a scheme for the disbursement of funds (the Dormant Accounts Fund) that are unlikely to be reclaimed for the purposes of measures to assist: 1. the personal and social development of persons who are economically or socially disadvantaged; 2. the educational development of persons who are educationally disadvantaged or 3. persons with a disability. The Dormant Accounts Act 2012 provides for a scheme for the disbursement of funds for the purposes of programmes or projects to assist the development of persons who are economically, socially or educationally disadvantaged, and persons with a disability. Dormant Accounts Fund: 2017 Action Plan As part of the Dormant Accounts Fund (DAF) Action Plan for 2017, the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) and the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP) are now inviting applications for funding from eligible social enterprises and carer organisations. The application process will be administered and managed on behalf of the two Departments by Pobal. 1

3 Overview of measures open for applications Below is a brief overview and introduction to two measures open for applications: OVERVIEW MEASURE 1: SOCIAL ENTERPRISE The budget available for allocation is up to 2 million. The amount you can apply for is between 20,000 and 75,000. Aim: To support social enterprises to provide quality services and create local employment opportunities, particularly in rural communities and for disadvantaged individuals. You must be a social enterprise to apply and have been operating as a social enterprise for more than 18 months. All applicants must provide evidence that they can provide a minimum of 20% of the total cost of the project from their own funds or other sources i.e. match funding. Funding is available for capital costs only. For example, machinery and equipment, refurbishment costs and office equipment (up to a maximum of 3,000). The project must commence in 2019 and be completed by end of June Priority will be given to applicants who have not previously been awarded funding under the Dormant Accounts Fund Action Plans. MEASURE 2: TRAINING AND SUPPORT FOR CARERS The budget available for allocation is up to 1.9m. You must be a National or Locally based family carer organisation to apply. Aim: To support national and local carers organisations to provide training, information and support to family carers to provide the best care possible. National organisations can apply for grants from 50,000 to 650,000. Locally based carers support groups or organisations can apply for grants from 30,000 to 60,000. To be eligible for funding, organisations must have at least three years proven track record in successfully working with Family Carers. Funding is available for costs associated with training programmes for carers, provision of information and supports to carers, implementation of actions or strategies to promote the engagement and support for male carers and networking for carers. The project must be for no longer than 18 months, commencing in January 2019 and be completed no later than June Please refer to the separate Factsheets, included in this document which contain the key information on each Measure in relation to eligibility, key requirements and the selection criteria for each measure. 2

4 The online application form will be available from Tuesday 31 st July Application Deadline: Friday 31 st August, 3pm. The online application form will be available from 31 st July In the meantime, please download the WORD version of the application form to assist with your preparations for making an application. Here is a link our website. How to apply Please start your online application form as soon as possible after 31 st July to ensure that any requests for technical assistance can be provided in time for you to submit your application. ICT technical support will not be guaranteed beyond Wednesday 29 th August Note: Only completed online application forms, received by the closing date and time, will be processed. Any incomplete applications on the system will not be processed. In addition, applications submitted via or post or handed into a Pobal or Department office will not be processed. Other useful information From the 31 st July 2018, you will be able to access the online application form via the Pobal website here A technical guide for completing the online application will also be available on the Pobal website from the 31 st July For further information and assistance: Pobal Online Support Team support: onlinesupport@pobal.ie Phone support: Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 3

5 Application process An overview of the key steps in the application process for the DAF funding is outlined below: 1. Applications can only be made using the online application form available via the Pobal website, here is a link to How to apply. You can start your online application on 31 st July. 2. The online system will automatically close at 3pm on Friday 31 st August You will be required to register online to obtain access to the online application form. 4. When you register you will automatically receive a user name and password which will allow you to commence the application process. 5. You can save and return to your form as often as required using the user name and password provided. 6. You will only be able to submit your application when all the mandatory questions (marked with *) have been completed and you have attached a document where required. 7. Only submitted application forms will be processed and considered for funding. 8. You will receive an automated when you have clicked the submit your application button confirming that your application form has been submitted. 9. Hard copies of your application form will not be accepted by , by post or in person to any of the Pobal offices or Department offices. 10. Download a copy of the word application form now so that you can commence preparing your answers in advance of the online form going live. Decision Timelines It is intended that decisions will issues to successful applicants in late 2018/January Successful applicants will be required to enter into a Grant Agreement (Contract) with Pobal from January Grant agreements will have a maximum duration of 18 months from January 2019 to June

6 What do I need to do in advance of making an application? For Measure 1: Social Enterprise and Measure 2: Training and Support for Carers Have a copy of your signed annual financial statements for 2017 ready to attach to the application form. Have your governing documents ready to attach, if you are a new applicant to Pobal. Have your legal name ready i.e. the name which appears on your governing documents. Know your organisation s legal status e.g. designated activity company, company limited by guarantee, industrial provident society i.e. the group or organisation must have a separate legal identity to the individuals involved in the group or organisation. The organisation must have a legal identity to be able to enter into a contract (grant agreement) for Dormant Accounts funding. Have the following numbers ready for the application form: Companies Registration Number (CRO) Registration Number (Only applies if your organisation is an Industrial and Provident Society) Tax Registration Number (TRN) Tax Clearance Access Number (TCAN) Charities Regulation Number (CRN) EIRCODE for your organisation business address Prepare your budget and the costs which are eligible for consideration. Download the budget template from the Pobal Website ( and complete offline, ready for attaching to the online application form. If you are registered for Value Added Tax (VAT) and can claim a VAT refund, the grant applied for must be for costs net of VAT. If you are registered for Value Added Tax and the project you are applying for is not eligible for a VAT refund, please download the VAT Not Recoverable Template and complete offline, ready for attaching to the online application form. 5

7 Read the word version of the application form and note where there are character limits for certain questions i.e. a limit on the number of words that can be inserted and where you need to attach a document or other information. Measure 1: Social Enterprise ONLY Consider if you need to have planning permission for any planned improvements to your facilities that relate to this Dormant Accounts Fund application. Consider if you need the consent of the owner of the premises to make any changes to the building or facilities or to install new machinery. Have your 2017 pricelist or other documentary evidence that demonstrate your trading activities. You are required to attach this to the application form. Obtain a quotation or a building estimate for each cost e.g. for every piece of equipment, machinery, or works that you are applying for. You are required to attach these to your online application form. Prepare your evidence of match funding of 20% of the costs. E.g. bank statement, loan agreement, partner funding, or offer of funding from another government department or funder. Download the co-funding (match funding) template and complete offline ready for attaching to the online application form. If your co-funding is from a partner organisation please download the partnership commitment letter template and complete offline ready for attaching to the online application. 6

8 Dormant Accounts Fund (DAF) MEASURE 1: SOCIAL ENTERPRISE FACTSHEET Accountable Department Management And Administration Of The Measure Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) Pobal is administering this measure on behalf of the Department, in accordance with our service agreement, government accounting procedures, relevant legislative and administrative frameworks. Dormant Accounts Strategic Objective To assist innovative projects and programmes which are designed to counter economic and social disadvantage (Source: Disbursement Scheme 2017 to 2019) Dormant Account Fund Action 2017 Action Plan Guiding Principles To grow and develop a vibrant social enterprise sector which will create local, sustainable jobs in the area of social service provision for disadvantaged communities and individuals. The key principles of the Dormant Accounts Fund:- Dormant Accounts Fund Key Principles Explanation Additionality Grants awarded will be for the purposes that are wholly additional to and not a substitute for mainstream government spending. Priority will be given to project proposals which demonstrate that actions would not be undertaken but for the funding. Sustainability Project proposals must be broadly sustainable and demonstrate local support. Compatible with Government Policy Impact The project proposal must take account of government policies and priorities in the area of social, economic and educational disadvantage, particularly in rural areas. Applicants must demonstrate the difference their project proposal can make to the community under a targeted theme and the impact on the quality of life for disadvantaged individuals. Philanthropy and Project proposals which attract or previously attracted Corporate Social philanthropic funding or support through Corporate Social Responsibility Responsibility programmes, will be considered under each Related of the three themes social and economic disadvantage, 7

9 educational disadvantage and disability projects and programmes. Value for Money Need Applicants will be expected to clearly demonstrate how their project proposal demonstrates value for money. Applicants must clearly identify and evidence the need for their project proposal. Key Definitions Social enterprise: for the purposes of this measure, the following definition applies: An enterprise that trades for social/societal purpose, where at least part of its income is earned from its trading activity, is separate from government and where the surplus is primarily re-invested in the social objective. Forfas: Social Enterprise in Ireland, Sectoral Opportunities and Policy Issues, July 2013 The key objective of a social enterprise is to attain one or more social goals with any profit/surplus reinvested in the enterprise as a means of ensuring sustainability. Disadvantaged individuals, in accordance with Part 6 of the 2012 Dormant Accounts (Amendment) Act, are: persons who are economically or socially disadvantaged or persons who are educationally disadvantaged, or persons with a disability (within the meaning of the Equal Status Act 2000) Overview Social enterprises play an important role in addressing social exclusion and unemployment in Ireland. The aim of measure is to increase the impact of social enterprises by enhancing their capacity to deliver services and generate traded income through the provision of small capital grants. Organisations can apply for funding to cover capital costs e.g. machinery, specialised equipment, refurbishment costs and vehicles necessary for the achievement of the enterprise s objectives. Applications from social enterprises who have not previously received funding under the Dormant Account Fund Action Plans for 2014 or 2016, will be prioritised. Application Timeframe Opening Date: Tuesday 31 st July 2018 Closing Date: Friday 31 st August 2018 at 3pm 10

10 Application Process All applicants must: Complete an online application form available on the Pobal website. Submit their completed application form to Pobal by the agreed closing date and time. Pobal will: Provide technical support to applicants completing the online form. Provide an automated acknowledging receipt of the online application form. Will send applicants who have commenced an online application but not submitted reminder s prior to the closing date and time. Support for perspective applicants Pobal will provide applicants with guidelines and frequently asked questions on the Pobal website. One information event in a central location with a morning and afternoon session will be hosted by Pobal on 31 July For additional information and assistance, please contact Pobal Online Support Team support: onlinesupport@pobal.ie Phone support: Opening Hours: Mon-Fri Duration Of The Grant All successful groups will be required to enter into a grant agreement with Pobal from January Grant agreements will have a maximum end date of 30 th June Grant Allocations Exclusive of match funding, the maximum grant award that an applicant may apply for capital costs is 75,000 and the minimum grant that an applicant can apply for is 20,000 A minimum of 20% match funding must be provided by the applicant organisation. A total budget of up to 2m is available for allocation to successful applications. Who Is Eligible To Apply To apply for a grant, organisations must: 1. Meet the definition of a social enterprise and 2. Be operating as a social enterprise for more than 18 months 11

11 Who Is Not Eligible To Apply Indicative Eligible Costs The following organisations/activities are ineligible: Private/Community Childcare Facilities/Services Festivals Schools, colleges, universities Sole traders or individuals Private commercial companies whose objects are not consistent with the principles of social enterprise. Any project that will displace an existing private or commercial services within the area of operation. All costs must relate directly to the implementation of the project and be clearly explained. The specific capital costs sought will generally fall under the following categories:- Machinery and equipment i.e. new machinery and replacements or upgrades are eligible for consideration. Refurbishment costs. For example, an extension to a workspace. Office Equipment (up to a maximum threshold of 3,000). Note: The cost of replacing or adding a new vehicle is eligible for consideration only when the applicant demonstrates that the vehicle is critical to the proposed project, the sustainability of the social enterprise and jobs in a disadvantaged area. Ineligible Costs The following conditions will apply in relation to vehicles: The vehicle must be owned by the organisation applying for the grant; New or second hand vehicles are eligible; The vehicle must be used for the purpose for which funding was sought and held for an appropriate length of time. The vehicle must not displace any existing private or commercial services within the area of operation. Below is a list of costs that are considered ineligible for funding. This is not an exhaustive list and applicants should be aware that some of the costs applied for may not be funded. Relevant overhead costs such as vehicle running costs, insurance and maintenance costs/salaries Retrospective costs i.e. expenditure incurred before the contract is signed and approved VAT, if your organisation is registered for VAT Funds to build up a reserve or surplus The purchase of land or buildings Entirely new standalone building on a greenfield site Routine building or machinery repairs and maintenance Costs not directly related to the purpose of the funding Notional costs Costs where it is clear the Dormant Accounts Fund is a substitute for other public funding that is currently available Social enterprise core costs including a contribution to salaries, overheads and management costs 12

12 Requirements For All Applicants Below are list of requirements, which all successful applicants are expected to have in place or comply with during the delivery of the project or prior to receiving a grant agreement or first payment. Applicants must have a legal status and are required to submit a copy of their governing documents, if Pobal does not already hold these on file. Applicants must submit their signed annual financial statements for 2017 with their application Project proposals must be additional to their organisation s core, work and activities, and funding must not be requested as a substitute for mainstream government funding. This is funding for once-off initiatives and distinct pieces of work Selection Process Applications will be subject to the follow process. Stage 1: Review of submitted applications Pobal will undertake a review of each application to ensure that all the required supporting documentation has been provided. If an applicant has inadvertently attached the wrong document e.g. a job description is attached in error, the applicant will be advised of this by and given 3 working days from the date of the to submit the document. Stage 2: Eligibility: To be eligible an applicant must submit: 1. An online application form by the closing date and time to Pobal. 2. Evidence of 20% match funding commitment e.g. a copy of a bank statement, a contract or letter of offer from another funder or loan agreement. 3. Meet the definition of a social enterprise. To demonstrate this applicants are required to attach a pricelist showing what the applicant charged for their goods or services in 2017 or other document in relation to their traded activity; submit their annual financial statements and to explain how their organisation meets the definition of a social enterprise. Only applications that meet the eligibility criteria including meeting the definition of a social enterprise, will progress to Stage 3 of the process. If the applicant has failed to supply all or the above required information in their application form (i.e. points 1 to 3 above), Pobal reserves the right to deem the application ineligible and the application will not progress to Stage 3. Stage 3: Meeting the selection criteria: Each application will be appraised against four criteria, which are outlined below. Applications that achieve a score of 60 or more at stage 3, are eligible for funding. However as this is a competitive process, achieving the quality standard score of 60 is not a guarantee of funding. 13

13 Selection criteria: Measure criteria. The applicant must demonstrate how their project is consistent with the overall objectives of the measure and principles of the Dormant Accounts Fund. Specifically the applicant will be expected to demonstrate the following: How the proposed project has the potential to create or maintain local, sustainable jobs for disadvantaged individuals or communities; How the capital grant will enhance their social enterprises in terms of their capacity to deliver services, particularly to disadvantaged communities and target groups; How the capital grant will contribute to improving or sustaining their own income generation; That it is not possible to undertake the project without funding from the Dormant Accounts Fund; The grant requested is not a substitute for mainstream government funding; The services and activities supported by the capital grant are not displacing any existing private or commercial services. Need. The applicant identifies and evidences what the local need is and how the proposal will address this need. Value for money. The applicant must provide justification for all the costs; demonstrate value for money in terms of costs and the social and economic benefits of the proposal. Capacity of the organisation. The applicant must provide information in relation to: their governance and financial controls; experience in managing public funding and managing the delivery of projects; and any relevant achievements. Selection Criterion Scoring Meeting the measure criteria 50% Evidence of need for the 20% proposal Value for money 20% Capacity of the organisation 10% 100% Priority will be given to applicants who have not previously received funding under the Dormant Accounts Fund Action Plan 2014 and or Decision Making The Department of Rural and Community Development will make the final decision in relation to selecting the organisations that are awarded funding. 14

14 Measure Level Outcome and Outputs Applicants are required to outline the anticipated outcome and outputs as a direct result of DAF proposal. Applicants will indicate how they will contribute to the measure level outcome and outputs outlined below. Outcomes of the measure Improved sustainability of social enterprises in receipt of Dormant Accounts funding Increase in delivery or quality of essential services in the community Provision of employment opportunities in disadvantaged areas Outputs for the measure Number of new jobs created in social enterprises as a direct of result of Dormant Accounts funding Number of jobs that are maintained in the social enterprises as a direct result of the Dormant Accounts funding Number of new jobs filled by the target group Payment Schedule For Successful Organisations For grants from 20,000 to 50,000, there are two instalments. 90% of the grant is awarded on receipt of the signed grant agreement and compliance with any pre-payment conditions included in the grant agreement. 10% paid retrospectively. The amount paid depends on the final verified expenditure, submission of all progress reports and evidence of compliance with all grant agreement conditions. For grants greater than 50,000 there are three instalments. 60% of the grant awarded on receipt of the signed grant agreement and compliance with any pre-payment conditions 30% of the grant when the grantee has spent 50% of their first instalment and have submitted an expenditure claim. 10% paid retrospectively. The amount paid depends on the final verified expenditure, submission of all progress reports and evidence of compliance with all grant agreement conditions. Payments are subject to:- a. The applicant providing evidence of spending the required 20% co-funding. b. Evidence of compliance with the public procurement guidelines. If the grantee does not comply with the public procurement guidelines, financial sanctions will apply. Post Funding Requirements Successful applicants must ensure that any publicity documentation or press release or similar announcement includes acknowledgement of the source of the funding i.e. the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) and the Dormant Accounts Fund. 15

15 For capital works greater than 50,000 (including match funding) the applicant must confirm in writing that the building will be used for the purposes outlined in the application for 10 years post the end date of the project. Grantees will be required to participate in any specific evaluation, including the participation in any networking events or collaborations and the provision of data to evaluator(s) in relation to the delivery of their project. Each successful applicant is required to submit an expenditure report to Pobal on a nine monthly basis via an on-line financial return i.e. 2 financial returns during the lifetime of the grant. This return has the agreed budget included in the grant agreement. The applicant reports their expenditure per budget heading and submits bank statements, invoices, builders certificates, architect certificates as evidence of expenditure and compliance with procurement requirements 16

16 Dormant Accounts Fund (DAF) MEASURE 2: Training and Support for Carers FACTSHEET Accountable Department Management And Administration Of The Measure Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP) Pobal is administering this measure on behalf of the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection, in accordance with our service agreement with the Lead Department (Department of Rural and Community Development), government accounting procedures, relevant legislative and administrative frameworks. Dormant Accounts Strategic Objective Economic and Social Disadvantage To assist innovative projects and programmes which are designed to counter economic and social disadvantage. (Source: Disbursement Scheme 2017 to 2019) Dormant Account Fund Action 2017 Priorities by Area and Strategy for Achieving Objectives Assistance for the provision of respite care facilities, and services and measures designed to provide training and support services for family carers. (Source: Disbursement Scheme 2017 to 2019) Guiding Principles The following outlines key principles of the Dormant Accounts Fund:- Dormant Accounts Fund Key Principles Explanation Additionality Grants awarded will be for the purposes that are wholly additional to and not a substitute for mainstream government spending. Priority will be given to project proposals which demonstrate that actions would not be undertaken but for the funding. Sustainability Compatible with Government Policy Project proposals must be broadly sustainable and demonstrate local support. The project proposal must take account of government policies and priorities in the area of social, economic and 17

17 educational disadvantage, particularly in rural areas. Impact Philanthropy and Corporate Social Responsibility Related Value for Money Need Applicants must demonstrate the difference their project proposal can make to the community under a targeted theme and the impact on the quality of life for disadvantaged individuals. Project proposals which attract or previously attracted philanthropic funding or support through Corporate Social Responsibility programmes, will be considered under each of the three themes social and economic disadvantage, educational disadvantage and disability projects and programmes. Applicants will be expected to clearly demonstrate how their project proposal demonstrates value for money. Applicants must clearly identify and evidence the need for their project proposal. Key Definitions National Carers Organisations: A national organisation is defined as an organisation with a nationwide membership of individuals and or organisations that can demonstrate extensive reach and engagement across the country. For the purposes of this Measure, the national organisations must also have a significant number of their organisational objectives and activities directly related to Supporting Family Carers to be eligible for funding. Locally Based Carers Organisations: Local organisations are those that provide support services or activities in their community or local area or region e.g. within a defined rural area, town or county basis or combined county basis. For the purposes of the Dormant Accounts funding, local organisations must also have a significant number of their organisational objectives and activities directly related to Supporting Family Carers to be eligible for funding. It is acceptable that two or more local based carers organisations can submit a joint application. In this case, the applicants must identify a lead applicant, with whom Pobal will contract with, should the application be successful. Local organisations, who are a member or a subgroup of a National Carers organisation, are eligible to apply for funding. In such cases the organisations national or head office must make the application on behalf of the local affiliated or member group. This is to reduce the administrative burden on small local organisations and to ensure there is no duplication with national actions supported 18

18 under this measure. Carer a carer is someone who is providing an ongoing significant level of care to a person who is in need of care in the home due to illness or disability or frailty. A carer can be caring for family member(s) or for a neighbour or friend in the community; a carer does not need to be living with the person they care for to be considered a Carer nor be in receipt of carers allowance. Carers are not paid workers and not volunteers but can be in receipt of social welfare payments for their caring. Former carers - for the purpose of the Dormant Accounts funding one of the target groups is former carers i.e. those whose caring responsibilities have ended recently (within the last 12 to 18 months) or where the end of caring responsibilities is imminent. Overview Funding will be provided for national and locally based project proposals to provide training programmes and information provision/support services for family carers. The purpose of this measure will be to assist carers to provide the best care possible to the care recipient; to reduce the risk of injury to the carer and care recipient and to help family carers cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of their role. Funding will also be made available to provide for the dissemination of resource information for carers, the development of support networks, and the development of support groups to assist with transition at the end of the caring role, and measures that assist in promoting carer self-identification. Application Timeframe Opening Date: Tuesday 31st July 2018 Closing Date: Friday 31 st August 2018 at 3pm Application Process All applicants must: Complete an online application form available on the Pobal website Submit their completed application form to Pobal by the agreed closing date and time. Pobal will: Send an automated acknowledgement of to all applicants who have submitted an application online Provide technical support to applicants completing the online form. Send reminder s to applicants who have commenced an online application but not submitted it, prior to the closing date and time. 19

19 Pre-Application Support To Applicants Pobal will provide applicants with guidelines and frequently asked questions on our website. An information event will be hosted by Pobal on 31st July For additional information please contact: Pobal Online Support Team support: Phone support: Opening Hours: Mon-Fri Duration Of The Grant Grant Allocations The maximum duration of a grant agreement will be 18 months. All successful applicants will be required to enter into a grant agreement with Pobal from January Grant agreements will have a maximum end date of 30 th June The total budget available is up to 1.9m. 1. Organisations with a national remit to support carers: Minimum Grant: 50,000 Maximum Grant: 650,000 The online form will only allow applicants to apply for a grant between 50,000 and 650, Locally based carers support groups or organisations: Minimum Grant: 30,000 M a x i m u m Grant: 60,000 The online form will only allow applicants to apply for a grant between 30,000 and 60,000.. Who Is Eligible To Apply Organisations or community and voluntary organisations who apply must: a. demonstrate that they have Carers Support as the significant part of their main purpose and mandate b. have a proven track record of at least three years successfully working with Family Carers In addition, an online application from a member group of a National Organisation must be submitted by the national head office. Who Is Not Eligible To Apply Statutory Bodies - however such bodies may participate in and support community and voluntary based initiatives in the project Sole traders and individuals Private commercial companies and for profit organisations 20

20 Training providers however such bodies may tender and provide services as part of the project or programme activities to the national or local carer organisations Colleges or universities Indicative Eligible Actions or Activities The provision of training programmes for family carers, which are designed specifically to improve the quality and standards of care to those persons being cared for. Types of training may include patient movement and handling, equipment handling, health and safety, healthy lifestyle, first aid, stress management, bereavement transition planning, end of life caring role and training for trainers. The provision of training programmes specifically tailored and targeted for the following groups to participate as fully as possible in economic and social life. Young Carers, Acquired Brain Injury Carers, Dementia Carers, Mental Health Carers, Children with Special Needs Carers, Traveller Carers Former carers i.e. those who a suffered a bereavement recently or where the end of caring responsibilities is imminent Specific strategies and actions that promote engagement and support for male carers such as Male Carer Support Groups, specifically tailored programmes which will assist with care giving alongside providing practical advice and information, counselling and strategies to deal with isolation. The provision of Information services which may include the development of Carers resources, publications or on-line resources as appropriate. Providing support to networks that aid and assist carers such as local peer support groups, on-line, telephone support, advice and information for Carers, including specialist helplines. Partnership approaches in the delivery of project activities and joint applications are welcome. Indicative Eligible Costs All costs must relate directly to the implementation of the proposal and be clearly explained. 21

21 Indicative List of Eligible Costs:- Respite supports to allow Carers to attend training, these costs will only be eligible when supported by vouched/documentary evidence of the costs Venue /Room Hire Course /Training Materials Tutors/Facilitators Fees Accreditation Fees Indirect Overhead costs are eligible for Community and Voluntary Organisations only; a flat rate of 5% of the total direct cost will apply Small items of equipment necessary for training. Single items must not exceed 1,000 inclusive of VAT Staff Travel and Subsistence. The applicant must provide details of their organisations policy and rates in relation to travel and subsistence Printing and Design ICT costs, which are specific to website development/online, supports Ineligible Costs Requirements For All Applicants Below are a list of ineligible costs. This is not an exhaustive list Redundancy costs Penalties/Interest Building or Refurbishment costs General maintenance and replacement costs Costs not directly related to the project Organisation Core Costs, including salary and overheads which are not as a direct result of the implementation of the DAF project Costs for actions for which more appropriate funding opportunities already exist. Retrospective costs - activity that has already been undertaken prior to date of project approval. Indirect overheads e.g. insurance, ICT maintenance and service charges, utilities Below are a list of requirements, which all successful applicants are expected to have in place or comply with during the delivery of the project or prior to receiving a grant agreement or first payment. Applicants must have a legal status and where applicable submit a copy of their governing document. Applicants must submit their signed annual financial statements for 2017 with their application Project proposals must be additional to their organisation s core, work and activities, and funding must not be requested as a substitute for mainstream government funding. This is funding for once-off initiatives and distinct pieces of work 22

22 In the cases of training programmes, applicants must ensure that where applicable they meet standards in accordance with the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). Applicants must demonstrate that they can meet the monitoring requirements and that they have sufficient systems and protocols in place to ensure that personal client privacy is protected in accordance with data protection legislation. Selection Process Applications will be processed as follows: Stage 1: Review of submitted applications Pobal will undertake a review of all applications to ensure that all the required supporting documentation has been provided. If an applicant has inadvertently attached the wrong document e.g. a job description is attached in error, the applicant will be advised of this by and given 3 working days from the date of the to submit the correct document. Stage 2: Eligibility To be eligible all applicants: Must submit an online application form by the closing date and time to Pobal. Must demonstrate : (a) At least 3 years experience in providing supports and services to family carers. (b) That the objectives of the organisation include the provision of supports and or services to carers, as a significant part of their main purpose and mandate. If an application is received directly from a member group of a National organisation, this application will be automatically deemed ineligible. Only applications that meet the eligibility criteria will progress to Stage 3 of the process. If the applicant has failed to supply all of the required information in their application form, Pobal reserves the right to deem the application ineligible. Stage 3: Meeting the selection criteria There is a number of criteria used to appraise each application, which are outlined below. Applications that achieve a score of 65 or more at stage 3 are eligible for funding. However as this is a competitive process, achieving the quality standard score of 65 is not a guarantee of funding. 23

23 Selection criteria:- Capacity of the organisation. The applicant must provide information in relation to their governance and financial controls; experience in managing public funding and managing the delivery of projects; and any relevant achievements. Strategic Fit. a. The applicant must demonstrate how their project proposal will support carers and make a demonstrable difference to their lives in one or more of the following ways: to enable carers to provide the best care possible to support carers in their role as carers both emotionally and psychologically to share best practice and information in relation to supporting carers to provide networking opportunities and group support for carers the provision of specific supports for carers post their caring responsibilities b. The applicant must demonstrate that the funds being sought are not a substitute for mainstream government funding and are additional. Applicants must demonstrate the project activities or actions would not take place with funding from the Dormant Accounts Fund. Value for Money/Added Value. The applicant must provide justification for all the costs; demonstrate value for money in terms of costs and the social and economic benefits of the proposal. Demonstration of Need. The applicant must clearly identify the need and how the project activities will address the need identified. Achievability and Strength of the Proposal. Applicants must demonstrate that: a. The project proposal is clear, realistic and achievable within the lifetime of the grant b. The learning and practice from the project activities has potential to improve the quality of the support and services for carers into the future c. The project involves all relevant stakeholders in its design and delivery. Scoring Framework A Score (0-20) will be awarded for each criterion. For two of the criterion, Strategic Fit and Demonstration of Need, applicants must achieve a minimum score of 8 (40%) to be considered eligible for funding. The Quality Threshold for consideration for funding will be 65%. However due to the competitive nature of the funding, not all applicants scoring above 65% will be awarded funding. 24

24 Decision Making The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection will make the final decision in selecting the organisations who are awarded funding. Payment Schedule For Applicants Pobal calculates the payments based on the amount approved by the Department as follows:- For grants from 30,000 to 50,000, there are two instalments. 90% of the grant awarded on receipt of the signed grant agreement and compliance with all pre-payment conditions included in the grant agreement. 10% paid retrospectively. The amount paid depends on the final verified expenditure, submission of all progress reports and evidence of compliance with all grant agreement conditions. For grants greater than 50,000 there are three instalments. 60% of the grant awarded on receipt of the signed grant agreement and compliance with any pre-payment conditions. 30% of the grant when the grantee has spent 50% of their first instalment and have submitted an expenditure claim. 10% paid retrospectively. The amount paid depends on the final verified expenditure, submission of all progress reports and evidence of compliance with all grant agreement conditions. Payments are subject to evidence of compliance with the public procurement guidelines. If the grantee does not comply with the public procurement guidelines, financial sanctions will apply. Measure Level Outcome And Outputs Applicants in the application form must outline the anticipated outcomes and outputs as a direct result of their Dormant Accounts proposal. Applicants will indicate how they will contribute to the measure level outcomes and outputs outlined below. Post approval, Pobal will circulate a short questionnaire to all successful applicants to gather information from a sample of participants benefitting from the actions on progress against the outputs and outcomes outlined below. This questionnaire will be circulated towards the end of the grant agreement period. The final payment will be subject to the submission of the results of this questionnaire. Outcomes for the measure: Grantees will be required to report on changes made to practice as a result of the DAF funded training. This will require trainers to follow up with a sample of participants (recommend a minimum of 20%) within 2 months of delivery of the training sessions with a questionnaire on changes made to practice in relation to 25

25 Outcomes. The need to carry out this follow up post-training will be specified in the guidelines with the grant agreement. Short-Medium Term Outcomes Increased knowledge and confidence for family carers Reduction in Social Isolation Legitimisation of opportunity for respite Increased participation in carers networks and support groups Improved management of the psychological and emotional aspects of carer s role Increased engagement by male carer s Improvement in Nutrition Carers better equipped to dealing with difficult behaviours Reduction in Stress levels Improved patient moving handling techniques Outputs for the measure: Applicants will be expected to contribute to at least one of the outputs listed for this measure: Number of accredited training programmes for Family Carers delivered Number of participants who completed accredited training programmes for Family Carers Types of training initiatives offered Number of Family Carers who completed training by gender and by age Number of participants in training programmes for target groups (give numbers under each of the following young carers, acquired brain injury, dementia, mental health, children with special needs, travellers) Numbers of publications/information resources developed and number of information resources distributed Number of information and awareness raising sessions delivered Number of networks supported within the year 26

26 Monitoring And Reporting Requirements For Successful Applicants Grantees will be expected to submit the following:- Results of a questionnaire undertaken post training with a sample of participants (recommended that this is a minimum of 20%) 2 months after each training session A short report during the project, reporting on progress against their grant agreement Submit an end of project report Personal information on recipients of training will not be collected/required by Pobal, however promoters will be expected to maintain personal /course files in the event of an audit or routine inspection of records. Grantees will be required to ensure that any press release, publicity documentation or similar announcement acknowledges the source of the funding and the sponsor Department i.e. the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP) and the Dormant Accounts Fund. Grantees will be required to participate in any specific evaluation, including the participation in any networking events or collaborations and the provision of data to evaluator(s) in relation to the delivery of their project Financial Reporting Requirements Each successful applicant is required to submit to Pobal on a six monthly basis via an on-line financial return. This return has the agreed budget included in the grant agreement. 27

27 Appendix 1: Frequently Asked Questions Measure 1: Social Enterprise Q. Can organisations based in urban areas apply? A. Yes, applications will be accepted from both rural and urban based organisations. Q. Are applicants from outside the Republic of Ireland eligible to apply? A. No, all applicants must be operating a social enterprise within the Republic of Ireland. Q. What is the eligibility period for project costs under this measure? A. Costs are eligible from the start date which will be specified on your grant agreement (contract) should your application be successful. Any costs incurred prior to your contract commencement date or after your end of contract date are not eligible for funding. All funded projects must be fully completed by 30 th June Q. Can we apply for capacity building costs in this round? A. No. Q. Is the development of a website/it system eligible? A. Yes, the development of a new website/it system is eligible. The new website/it system must be used for more than 12 months. The purchase of IT equipment (including software that will be used for more than 12 months) is also eligible. However, the maintenance of existing online systems/websites is a core recurring expenditure and therefore ineligible. Q. We would like to purchase a Portakabin. Is this eligible? A. No, the purchase of portakabins will not be considered under this measure. Q. Is a new build on a greenfield site eligible? A. No, the construction and related professional fees associated with a new build on a greenfield site are not eligible for funding. However, construction costs associated with extensions to existing buildings or renovations of existing buildings are eligible for consideration. Q. My project involves an extension to a building that is currently at the design phase. Can we still apply? A. Yes, if planning permission is required for your extension, evidence of full planning permission must be submitted to Pobal in order for Pobal to issue a grant agreement. If planning has been applied for prior to the application submission, please note your planning reference number in the application. All funded projects must be fully completed by 30 th June Q. Does a signed lease have to be in place with our landlord by the time we make our application for Dormant Account Funding? A. No, if your application is successful, a full signed lease will be required to be in place in order for us to issue a grant agreement. If you are not likely to conclude a lease agreement by the application deadline, it is suggested you attach a letter of explanation with a timeline and a statement of intent from the Landlord to progress a lease with you. 28

28 Please note that for capital building works, including co-funding, of 50,000 or greater, the applicant must confirm in writing the building will be used for the purposes outlined in the application for the next 10 years, post the end date of the project. For capital building works of less than 50,000, it is expected that a reasonable lease arrangement is in place (e.g. 3-5 years). Q. Do we need to submit quotes with the Application? A. Yes, one written quote per budget line item or one building cost estimate is required to be uploaded with the application. It is important that the quote is of sufficient detail in order for Pobal to form a judgement on the value for money and actual purpose of the grant being applied for. In the case of all quotes provided they should state the following: - Name of the supplier - Date of quote - Quote supplied - price and goods/service - Any conditions of supply - Specification of each item - In case of refurbishment works include a breakdown of costs (i.e. flooring, walls fittings, furniture) Q. Do we need to have completed a Public Procurement Process prior to making an application? A. No, if your application is successful and you receive a grant agreement, you will be required to adhere to Public Procurement rules. These rules state that for projects between 5,000 and 25,000, three written quotations will be required and for the issue of contracts for works or services over 25,000 a full tendering process via e-tenders is required. See Q. Can LEADER funding be used for co-funding purposes? A. Yes, LEADER funds are acceptable as co-funding under this measure as long as the overall level of public funding does not exceed 95% of the total eligible project costs. Q. Can voluntary labour or staff time be counted for co-funding purposes? A. No, voluntary labour or staff time cannot be counted as co-funding for this measure. Co-funding must be in the form of cash only, which is available for the specific purpose of the project in question. For example: A bank statement, loan agreement, partner funding, or offer of funding from another government department or funder. Q. Under Measure 1 for social enterprises, may I apply for refurbishing two spaces or areas to assist with growing and improving our social enterprise? A. Yes, you can apply to refurbish two rooms or areas in your application for funding. There is no need to make two separate applications. You are reminded that the maximum amount of grant that can be applied for is 75,000 and you must provide evidence of a minimum of 20% match funding. 29