A FUNDING pot has been opened for projects tackling lonelieness in the community, with groups across West Devon and the Tamar Valley invited to apply.

Electricity distribution company Western Power Distribution has £500,000 earmarked from its Community Matters Fund for projects aimed at banishing isolation.

This is something which has got worse for many people as a result of the covid pandemic, with so many community groups and organisations having to cancel activities.

The company is offering grants of up to £10,000 for projects ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs from May 9 to 15.

Applications for funding are invited up until Sunday, April 24, with money available for any project which brings people together and eases them back into connecting with others.

Suggestions include befriending services, digital skills and inclusion projects and task forces involved in creating or upgrading green spaces for community use.

Alison Sleightholm, WPD’s resources and external affairs director, said: ‘Covid-19 has had a significant impact on people’s mental health over the past two years, and lockdowns and social distancing measures have undoubtedly led to feelings of loneliness and isolation. We are committed to taking the lead on this emerging issue, helping provide crucial interventions and preventing further increases in mental health issues.’

She continued: ‘WPD is looking to support and partner with community groups and organisations in the South West to achieve positive change.

‘With loneliness and tackling social exclusion as the core topic, we open the doors to funding applications from all generations and diverse community groups and organisations.’

For more information and to apply, please visit www.westernpower.co.uk/community-matters-fund.