Voluntary groups to share £1.2m

Voluntary and community groups in Worcestershire can apply for a share of nearly £1.2m to aid their work.

From Monday, Worcestershire County Council is inviting organisations to apply for three-year grants, or money for a year or a one-off activity.

The council said it was the second phase of its Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) scheme which aims to help the groups to deliver public services.

A total of £953,000 was given to 45 groups during the first phase.

County councillor Simon Geraghty said: "We are keen for as many groups as possible to complete an application form and apply for one of these grants.

"Our grant programme is a positive step forward in helping the voluntary and community sector which, in turn, helps to deliver public services throughout Worcestershire."

The council will be holding several advice sessions in September where people can find out about the grants and how to complete the application forms.

The closing date for the applications will be 31 October.