A CHARITY is inviting community groups to submit ideas to gain access to funding.

Leigh Neighbours is asking organisations such as churches, schools, businesses and other clubs to bid for up to £500 from its Residents Fund to support a project they have in the pipeline such as an event, a group or a campaign.

Set up in 2012, the £1 million National Lottery funded charity Leigh Neighbours was formed to stimulate community cohesion, tackle social inequalities and promote environmental improvements in the west of the town.

Chair of Leigh Neighbours Susan Gredecki said: “By cutting out unnecessary red tape, our Residents Fund offers individuals and community groups - some of whom may have little or no previous experience in pitching for funding – an opportunity to access money more easily, without having to jump through too many hoops.

“Our board is responsible for managing the dispersal of the National Lottery funding in the area but we need the help of local residents and organisations to carry out activities, events and projects.

“We appreciate some people are new to this, so we are happy to provides support with logistics, project management, budgeting and PR, too."

Since its formation in 2012, the charity has delivered hundreds of free activities and events for the community in addition to offering funding for projects organised by other groups including schools.

Susan added: "We want to invest in existing groups or charities or in individuals who have the passion and determination to deliver their ideas.

"Just so long as the proposal makes our area cleaner, safer or a happier place to live, we would love to hear from you.”

The charity has had another busy year with lots of free activities on offer for the community.

Workshops on bike safety, hanging baskets took place along with a Big Lunch event.

Funding was also secured for Sacred Heart RC Primary School to delivery a Summer school for pupils along with donations to other charities, shelters and foodbanks.

For more information about the Residents Fund or to apply for it visit lnpb.org.uk/residents-fund/.