Local charities and voluntary organisations can boost their funds and pick up volunteers, thanks to a new scheme launched by a high street bank.
Sutton Council is encouraging groups across the borough to apply for a £6,000 grant being offered by Natwest. The bank is offering the cash to three organisations in the Sutton and Epsom area as part of its CommunityForce project.
It is aimed at helping local charities, organisations and groups to raise the profile of their work and attract volunteers.
The winners will be decided by a public online vote, with the three with the most votes taking the prize money. Staff from local branches of the bank will also get stuck in, lending a hand to some of the nominated groups.
Cllr Simon Wales, Executive Member for Communities, Transport and Voluntary Sector at Sutton Council, said: “This is a great opportunity for some of our community groups to attract funding which will make a real difference. At a time when budget cuts are making it harder for charities and voluntary groups to find funding, this is especially welcome, and I hope it will help to raise the profile of the excellent organisations here in Sutton.”
Gill Crow, Local CEO at Natwest, said: “Natwest has a long and proud history of supporting the community in Sutton and Epsom and I’m delighted one of my first tasks in my new role is to launch CommunityForce locally. Giving the community the chance to vote for the award winners will ensure these funds go to the organisations local people value the most.
“CommunityForce is part of our ongoing commitment to support the communities where we live and work; not just by donating funds, but also through volunteering their time and expertise.”
Organisations and charities can apply for a CommunityForce award at www.natwest.com/communityforce|. The closing date for entries is 4th September.
Posted on Tuesday 9th August 2011