A FUND worth thousands of pounds has been launched in Dorset to help those affected by flooding earlier this year.

Dorset Community Foundation is set to hand out a total of £32,000 to individuals, families and community groups who were hit by the floods between December and March.

The foundation’s umbrella organisation, UKCF, received the funding from the Office for Civil Society (OCS), who have distributed the monies to 10 different Community Foundations around the country, including Dorset.

Tracy Melling, operations and fund development manager, said that they were extremely grateful for the funds received from the OCS.

She added: “The support provided will enable families to meet the cost of emergency accommodation, help towards any structural damage to their homes, and help pay towards the finances of any interior appliances that were damaged, such as fridge freezers and washing machines.

“We are also offering financial support to any voluntary organisations and community groups who are offering support and advice to those who have been affected.

“At a time when people’s lives have been turned upside down, the financial support and assistance will make a huge difference.

“If anyone would like to make a donation to the Flood Relief Fund, we would encourage them to get in touch.”

Any individual, family, voluntary organisation or community group who has been affected by the recent floods is invited to get in touch and apply for a grant with the Dorset Community Foundation by calling 01202 292255 or go to dorsetcommunityfoundation.org

The deadline for applications is 1pm on Friday, May 2.