Local community groups and charities supporting Basingstoke and Deane residents struggling with the cost of living have until Tuesday 17 January to apply to the Greenham Trust and council for support.

Many local community and voluntary organisations play a key role in supporting residents in need or facing difficult financial situations. Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has recognised this by partnering with the Greenham Trust to establish the Cost of Living Community Fund.

The joint scheme is open to any not-for-profit community or voluntary sector organisation located and delivering services in the borough of Basingstoke and Deane.

Applications to the scheme will need to demonstrate clearly how the funding will help the borough’s residents with the rising cost of living, providing evidence there is a real community need for the resources the funding is being sought for.

The total budget allocated to the community grant scheme for 2022/23 is £85,000, and organisations can apply for a grant of up to £5,000. Under exceptional circumstances, a grant of more than £5,000 may be awarded.

Cabinet member for Partnerships Cllr Jenny Vaux said: “Community and voluntary groups play a vital role in our borough and we value their contribution. The council has a strong track record of supporting organisations to make a real difference in their communities.

“I encourage organisations that are facing increasing demand assisting residents with cost of living pressures to submit their applications as soon as possible.”

Greenham Trust Chief Executive Chris Boulton added: “Residents are under ever increasing financial pressure and this fund is really important to help local charities and organisations to support those in need.”

Organisations can find out more and apply online at https://thegoodexchange.com/nh-cost-of-living/