A FUNDING lifeline has been thrown to voluntary groups in North Dorset.

The Dorset Strategic Partnership has £25,000 to give away this spring, and it’s targeting projects involving transport, healthier communities, the economy, and environment.

Jo Rose, community development worker co-ordinator, said the funding was a brilliant piece of news in bleak financial times.

“There are so many potentially good projects out in the community that need an injection of funds to kick start them. This funding could be just what they need,” said Jo.

Registered charities and properly constituted voluntary organisations as well as parish and town councils will be eligible for the funds. Grants will not be available to individuals.

Applicants must show that their projects benefit their community and have the support of local people. They will also need to feature in a parish, town or community plan.

The maximum amount of grant available to any one project will be £5,000 and applicants must show other sources of funding have been secured.

To apply, call 01258 489998 or email pauline@dt11forum.org.uk. The deadline for applications is March 1.

Grants need to be fully spent by March 31 2010.