A grants provision for community groups returns today (Monday) with more money available.

Building on the success of previous years’ Community Grants Schemes Dover District Council has increased the annual fund to £130,000 this year to help groups deliver projects in a Covid-safe way.

The grant has been split into two rounds for the summer and winter and includes £7,500 from the Dover District Lotto. For every pound spent on the Lotto, 60p goes back into the local community.

A total £65,000 is now available for the summer round.

Community groups who benefit the local area can bid for grants from £100 up to £2,000. Bids will be accepted from today until noon on Monday, May 24, and successful applicants will be notified in early July.

The council says that as the roadmap out of lockdown progresses it recognises the important role that local groups have played, and will continue to play, as the district slowly recovers.

The scheme encourages and supports activities that result in a direct community benefit for residents in the district.

Brin Hill, council head of community and digital services, said: “As we embark on the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown, our community will be looking forward to safely and slowly getting back to the clubs and activities they enjoy.

" Local groups play an invaluable role in offering our residents somewhere to go to meet friends, learn new skills and enhance their wellbeing and happiness.

"“This money will enable organisations to get up and running again, buying much needed resources and adapting where necessary in response to Covid-19 guidance.

“We welcome the extra funding that the Dover Lotto continues to bring our communities. We hope as many groups as possible apply and welcome community groups contacting us about the scheme before they make their application so that they can submit an effective bid.”

Funds are allocated across five areas, Sandwich and its surrounding villages, Deal and Walmer, Dover North, Dover Town and Dover West.

Every application will also be allocated to one of these five areas, depending on the project location.

Applications are welcomed from groups based within the Dover district, or who want a grant to support activities that will benefit a community within the area.

This includes charities, social enterprises, voluntary and community groups, sports and youth clubs and church and faith groups.

You can apply for a grant online on the DDC website dover.gov.uk/Community

For more information, telephone 01304 872277 or email: communitygrants@dover.gov.uk

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