New jobs, revitalised community spaces and life‑changing opportunities are being celebrated as Torbay’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) programme concludes and the lasting benefits are felt in communities across the Bay.
Since its launch in 2022, Torbay received around £2.4 million in UKSPF funding from the Government to deliver community‑led initiatives over a four‑year period. With the UKSPF programme coming to an end earlier this year, early reporting and analysis highlight its outstanding success — and the meaningful impact it has had on people across Torbay.
Co‑ordinated by Torbay Council, the UKSPF funding supported 15 diverse local projects, delivered by a wide range of partner organisations. Spending and project delivery were aligned with Torbay’s Economic Growth Strategy 2022-30, ensuring that economic growth was prioritised and achieved in a sustainable way. Funding was directed at supporting local businesses, boosting opportunities for local people and creating spaces for communities to enjoy.
Transformation of community spaces was a key theme of Torbay’s UKSPF programme. This included creating refurbished changing facilities at Armada Park, new sports facilities at Torre Abbey North, and vital repairs to the steps at Watcombe Beach which restored public access after storm damage.
Alongside these visible improvements, the programme focused on people and skills. Projects such as Sound Futures, delivered by local CIC Sound Communities, used creative and digital arts to build confidence and inspire young people back into work, education or training. One young person supported by Sound Futures has since gone on to launch their own business. They said:
“My experience with Sound Futures has been transformative. The programme boosted my professional confidence and validated my skills and knowledge. It helped me organise my work and feel supported every step of the way, accelerating my journey into self‑employment.”
Another standout project was Healthy Homes for Wellbeing. Delivered by ECOE Advice, the programme provided free energy support and advice to help Torbay residents on low incomes or benefits save money and keep their homes warm. In total, over 500 local households were able to save hundreds of pounds per year on their energy bills. One Paignton family shared the impact the project had on their lives:
“I genuinely can’t believe how much better off we are going to be, especially this winter. It’s a huge relief to know we can get by without panicking as the colder nights draw in. For my mental health, a massive burden of stress has been lifted.”
Supporting local businesses and social enterprises was also a key priority for the UKSPF programme. Several projects were launched locally to help Torbay businesses to innovate, grow and reduce their carbon footprint. Together, these interventions delivered impressive results:
– Over 700 businesses supported
– More than 100 jobs created
– Over 170 jobs safeguarded
– More than 100 people supported into employment
– Over 200 people entering education or training
Torbay’s UKSPF programme has also received recognition outside of the Bay and was shortlisted for a Local Government Chronicle Award last year in the Economic Development category.
Cllr David Thomas, Leader of Torbay Council and Chair of the Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority, said: “The UK Shared Prosperity Fund has driven meaningful investment in vital projects across Devon and Torbay. From business support and employability skills to decarbonisation initiatives and volunteering programmes, these schemes are making a real difference. The impact of UKSPF funding has been felt widely across our communities, and it’s fantastic to celebrate these programmes and recognise the achievements of everyone involved.”
Now that Torbay’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund programme has been completed, its lasting benefits will continue to shape the Bay for years to come. By investing in people, places and local partnerships, the programme has strengthened communities, supported economic resilience and created opportunities where they are needed most.
Businesses and community groups from across Torbay can still benefit from a wide range of support from the Torbay Council Economy Team. The team host and organise a variety of events and workshops throughout the year to support Torbay’s business community to thrive and are on hand to offer funding advice. For more information and to sign up to the free business newsletter visit Business Support – Torbay Council
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