Groups in Liverpool can bid for cash to fund projects that benefit their community.

Liverpool City Council has made available nearly £200,000 to support community initiatives which contribute to the well being of residents in each of the city's 30 wards. 

Bids, which must have the backing of at least one ward councillor, will be assessed by Neighbourhood Committees.

Lib Dem Councillor Marilyn Fielding, executive member for neighbourhoods, said: "These grants can help community groups, who have good ideas which could benefit their area.

"We expect the scheme to be popular so we will give priority to those bids which are as inclusive as possible and have a long-lasting benefit to the community."
 
The council hopes the new grants will help more local people engage with local councillors and neighbourhood committees when they see immediate tangible results.

Projects that improve access to community facilities are particularly welcome as are imaginative ideas that get people involved in their neighbourhood.
 
Grants can be between £300 and £5,993 in one ward up to a maximum of £17,799 if the grant covers three wards.

No grants will be given for religious purposes, political activities, to individuals or for adult learning, counselling, community arts, early years education, social care or health care as these are covered by other schemes.

For information on The Empowering Neighbourhoods Scheme (TENS) ring the Community Resources Unit on 225-2627 or email  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  

The final date for all completed applications is 27 October 2006.