PROJECTS and charitable organisations supporting LGBTQ+ communities in Dorset could receive funding courtesy of Bournemouth’s pride festival Bourne Free.

Launched in November 2019, the Bourne Free Community Fund provides financial assistance to projects and organisations which support the local LGBT+ community.

The fund, which had a start-up amount derived from previous donations, will be primarily funded by a percentage of proceeds from all Bourne Free events, as well as additional donations from external contributors.

Local groups and organisations can apply for up to £1000 worth of funding to help continue their services during the current pandemic.

Bourne Free Trustee Louise Clarke said: “We are absolutely delighted as a charity to be in a position where we can provide financial support to very worthy causes.

“We are passionate about supporting the local LGBTQ+ community and making a real difference.

“It is also fantastic that the people who have supported Bourne Free and our events, have directly contributed to enabling this to happen.”

Previous rounds of funding have seen the charity support Bournemouth Samaritans, The Dorset Children’s Foundation, LGBTQ+ domestic abuse charity GALOP and the LGBT+ Dorset Equality Network.

Patsy Hallmey from The Dorset Children’s Foundation said: “We were delighted to gain the support from our local pride charity Bourne Free.

“We help and support many LGBTQ+ families who have sick and disabled children and the money will directly help improve their lives.”

The Bourne Free Community Fund judging panel meet quarterly throughout the year. The five-person judging panel will assess applications and decide how the funds should be allocated.

To apply, complete the onloine form at http://form.123formbuilder.com/5600463/community-fund-application-form or email - Louise@bournefree.co.uk.