Charity or community projects which protect or improve the environment can now apply for grants of up to £1,500 from a fund co-ordinated by the Wiltshire Community Foundation.
The Wessex Water Environment Fund was created by the company to support projects involving communities in environmental activities to benefit their area, have a positive impact on local environments or educate people about the importance of supporting it.
Priority will be given to groups working to save water, cut the use of single-use plastics, reduce waste or improve local biodiversity.
Kirsty Scarlett, Wessex Water’s head of Community Engagement, explained, “The grants will 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 show community benefit to their project.”
Last year the Fund awarded £9,000 to seven projects including:
- Wessex Multiple Sclerosis Centre in Warminster (pictured) which received £1,300 to make its garden more sustainable for members.
- Wiltshire Bat Group which received £1,482 to undertake surveys and create more interest in bats among the farming community.
- Bowerhill Residents Action Group in Melksham which received £1,000 to turn three unused grass areas into a haven for hedgehogs, bees and insects.
- The Devenish Bradshaw Charitable Trust which received £1,450 to enhance areas surrounding a beautiful chalk stream and water meadow at Laverstock in Salisbury
Wiltshire Community Foundation joint Chief Executive, Fiona Oliver, said, “We are delighted that Wessex Water has again entrusted our close relationship with and knowledge of the grass roots groups across the county to ensure its generous support for the environment makes the most impact.
“We have been inspired by the brilliant local projects that were funded last year and look forward to seeing more of the same.”
Find out more about the grants and how to apply via the Wiltshire Community Foundation website.
