Environment grants for community or charitable projects

WILTSHIRE Community Foundation has once again teamed up with Wessex Water to offer grants of up to £2,000 for community or charitable projects working to protect or improve the environment.

The Wessex Water Environment Fund, which is now open for applications, will fund projects that involve communities in environmental activities that benefit the area, have a positive impact on the local environment or help communities understand the importance of supporting it.

“Priority will be given to initiatives that save water or improve sustainability and local biodiversity,” said Kirsty Scarlett, Wessex Water’s head of community engagement. “The grants will be targeted at organisations where a small amount of money can make a significant difference,” she added.

“Groups eligible are those with charitable aims, registered charities and community interest companies with an annual income of less than £500,000. Schools and parish councils can apply if they can demonstrate community benefit to their project.”

Grants can go towards project costs, including equipment, salaries and overheads.

The fund is part of the company’s charitable foundation, which provides a dedicated stream of funding for the voluntary sector.

Last year, more than £19,000 from the fund was awarded to 15 projects. Salisbury-based youth charity, Rise:61, used a £1,500 grant to create a sensory garden and composting area at the community garden its volunteers reclaimed from bramble-strewn waste ground at

Bemerton Heath housing estate.

Applications are open until end of day on 22 May. Find out more about the fund, its criteria and how to apply at wiltshirecf. org.uk

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