A PROJECT which helps disabled people explore self-employment has until Monday to win enough public backing to secure £50,000 of National Lottery funding.

The Bournemouth-based DEBBS Project is one of five groups in the Meridian West region which is in the running for a share of the People’s Projects money.

The Big Lottery Fund, ITV and the National Lottery have teamed up to give the public a chance to decide how money should be put to use in their area.

If successful, DEBSS will use the grant to help more disabled people start their own business.

Its chief executive, Sam Cockcroft-Oliver, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to raise awareness and support for our work and secure further much-needed funding. We urge local people to get behind us. If successful, our project will make a real difference to our local community by helping many more disabled people gain independence.”

Joe Ferns, UK funding director of the Big Lottery Fund, said: “As the largest funder of community activity in the UK, we are proud to support grassroots groups that are using the vision, determination and drive of local people to strengthen communities. The People’s Projects showcase the best of these and is a chance for you to have your say on how National Lottery funding can benefit your local community.”

Since 2005, around £39million has been awarded through the Big Lottery Fund, National Lottery and ITV/STV partnership to 865 good causes across the UK.

Voting closes at noon on Monday, April 30. People can vote once per region and will need to provide an email address. Visit thepeoplesprojects.org.uk