Community and voluntary groups in Basingstoke and Deane can apply for grants to strengthen their organisations and support them in responding to the evolving needs of their communities.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council is relaunching its Strengthening Communities Grant Scheme, which has a pot of £188,000 available for community and voluntary groups, as well as parish and town councils.

The grants, which can be up to £15,000, are aimed at increasing resilience, driving innovation, and better meeting the needs of the community.

The grants can be used to improve business models, increase volunteer numbers, develop marketing plans, and enhance income generation.

READ MORE: Basingstoke council's community grants scheme helps 91 organisations

They cannot be used to fund existing programs or projects.

Last year, the scheme funded various organisations, including a conservation group, swimming club, Scout group, and repair cafe, among others.

The organisations used the grants to develop new services and activities, increase their capacity, develop new income streams, and employ outreach workers.

Cabinet member for partnerships, Cllr Jenny Vaux, said: “We value the contribution of the borough’s community and voluntary sector and we are extremely lucky to have so many individuals and groups who strive to do so much for their communities.

“We have a strong track record of supporting community organisations to deliver services and activities for local residents. As community and voluntary groups play a vital role in our borough, we are committed to supporting them to adapt for the future and ensure their work continues to meet their community’s needs and helps residents to thrive. We had a fantastic response to last year’s grants and are pleased to be launching this year’s scheme.”

To apply, the organisations must operate in Basingstoke and Deane and have a bank account. For more information about the grant and how to apply, visit the council's website at basingstoke.gov.uk/funding.