LOCAL groups and organisations have until February 6 to apply for grants of up to £2,000 to help boost community projects across the borough.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and Basingstoke Voluntary Action are working with Hampshire County Council to deliver the borough’s small scale community grant initative “Have Your Say”.

The scheme aims to support local voluntary and community organisations to improve their local environment and strengthen their community.

Applications for the grants, which range from £200 to £2,000, are open to any community organisation in the area, providing that the project is:

• managed by volunteers, non-profit making and operates without undue restriction on membership

• operates in the borough of Basingstoke and Deane

• can evidence the benefit to local residents

• demonstrates the need for financial help.

Schools may also apply for projects that are beyond the school curriculum and benefit the wider community.

Local residents will then have the opportunity to help decide which groups and organisations receive the funding by voting for the projects they feel would most benefit their community in March.

The council’s Cabinet member for partnerships, Councillor Cathy Osselton, said: “This funding can make a real difference to communities and by asking residents to have their say in deciding which local projects receive the funding from the council and the county council they will hopefully get the projects and additional services they most need and want in their area.”

For more information on the Have Your Say grant scheme and to apply visit www.basingstoke.gov.uk/go/haveyoursay or call 01256 844844.