TWO initiatives will be launched by Thurrock Community and Voluntary Services (CVS) tomorrow (Monday, 28 February) offering financial support to local community projects.

'Small Sparks' is a community fund that can be used to support local events, clubs and activities in Thurrock. Applications for a maximum of £250, which must be match funded and include a group of people or neighbours, can be made to the CVS.

CVS chief executive Kristina Jackson said: "With many people thinking about a traditional street party this year for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, Small Sparks is exactly the kind of support residents can utilise to make their plans come together."

Applying is simple, either online or by completing an application form and sending to [email protected].

All details including additional examples and guidance can be found on the Thurrock CVS Website.

The Small Sparks Fund is administered by Thurrock CVS and support is available to complete the application if required. And larger grants will be available for community projects via The Thurrock Community Fund which opens tomorrow. The Community Fund is for projects which are either Thurrock-wide or neighbourhood based. Applications which help communities recover from Covid and support any one of the following local priorities are encouraged:

• Build Strong and well connected communities
• Improving children's emotional health and well being
• Reduce social isolation and loneliness
• Put people in control of their own care
• Helping to support those waiting for preventative services due to backlogs
• Supporting vulnerable or marginalised groups access services
• Interventions that address mental ill health and anxiety
• Support for those in insecure employment, who are unemployed or need up-skilling
• Access to green spaces, the outdoors, and being physically activity in a safe environment
• Support for victims of violence or abuse, particularly domestic and sexual abuse

Applications can be made for up to £4,000 and submitted until 12midnight on 9 May 2022

Ms Jackson said: "The Fund consistently leads to opportunities for both local groups and residents in Thurrock. The panel is looking forward to receiving a lot of interest and would urge all local groups and organisations to check the criteria and make an application"

Full details can be found on the Thurrock CVS website along with all other local funding opportunities.