Grants being offered to Wiltshire groups to protect environment

Wessex Water's opening up its annual fund once again

Author: Faye Tryhorn

Groups across Wiltshire, that support and protect the local environment, are being encouraged to apply for a grant from a local water supplier.

Wessex Water is reopening its Environment Fund in April, to help community or charitable projects in the county.

Grants of up to £2,000 are available, distributed by the Wiltshire Community Foundation.

It's for activities that benefit the area or restore, maintain or enhance the local natural environment, with priority given to initiatives that save water or improve sustainability and local biodiversity.

The Wessex Water Environment Fund aims to support projects in Wiltshire to benefit local habitats and countryside

Kirsty Scarlett, Wessex Water’s head of community engagement, said:

“The grants will also be targeted at organisations where a small amount of money can make a significant difference.

“Groups eligible are those with charitable aims, registered charities, and community interest companies with an annual income of less than £500,000.

Schools and parish councils can apply if they can demonstrate community benefit to their project.”

Grants can go towards project costs including equipment, salaries and overheads.

The fund is part of the company’s charitable foundation, which provides a dedicated stream of funding for the voluntary sector.

The Wessex Water Foundation plans to provide at least £500,000 of funding every year to support community projects, local environment projects, debt advice and charities helping those who are suffering the consequences of poverty through low income or unemployment.

A project to monitor water voles in Wiltshire was among the schemes getting a grant last time around

Wiltshire Community Foundation joint chief executive Fiona Oliver said:

“This is the fourth year of our partnership with Wessex Water and each time we run this programme we see some wonderfully innovative projects that demonstrate the passion people have for the natural environment in their community. We’re looking forward to seeing what will emerge this time round.”

The Fund will open for applications on April 22nd through until May 17th.

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