COMMUNITY groups across Southampton are being encouraged to bid for a share in a cash windfall of £100,000.

Southampton City Council have made the cash available to groups in the city, as part of the city council’s community chest.

The chest is the council’s small grants scheme and has been running for more than 30 years.

It offers one year grants of up to £2,500 to community groups and small voluntary organisations with annual incomes of less than £250,000.

This money is used for projects that benefit Southampton residents and funds a wide range of scheme, that are supported by the council’s policies.

The applications will then be assessed and the grants will be allocated by the cabinet member for communities, culture and leisure, Councillor Satvir Kaur, who will chair a new cross-party Member Panel to make recommendations.

Cllr Kaur said: “There are hundreds of community groups from all areas of Southampton that are an invaluable asset to their neighbourhoods.

“There are some great examples of the Community Chest grants supporting and empowering fantastic projects that benefit local people.

“Southampton is only as good as its people, so we remain committed to supporting those who are trying to make it a better place for everyone.

“Doubling the Community Chest grant is an example how we are empowering communities to do the great work they do. I encourage all eligible groups to bid.”

Community groups who meet the criteria and have a great idea for a city-supporting project should make their application to the council by midday on 15 May 2017.

The application forms are available on southampton.gov.uk/communitychest