COMMUNITY and voluntary groups in Christchurch are being encouraged to apply for grants to help boost safety projects in the borough.

Grants are available from a fund set-up by a partnership between Christchurch Borough Council and Dorset Police with £10,000 worth of funding available for projects which improve community safety, reduce crime and the fear of crime.

The funding, which must be spent before the end of March 2011 should meet identified local needs and contribute towards the priorities of the Dorset Community Safety Partnership.

For details contact Natalie Minns on 01202 495111 or email n.minns@christchurch.gov.uk