WEST Devon groups and organisations with great ideas to make their communities an even better place to live are now invited to apply for funding to turn their ideas into reality.

People's Health Trust has just launched 'Active Communities' in Devon and Torbay – a funding programme for local people wanting to create fairer places to grow, live, work and age.

Using money raised by HealthContact through The Health Lottery, People's Health Trust is looking to invest in projects that support people living in the most disadvantaged neighbourhoods of the county.  

Active Communities is a funding programme for not-for-profit groups with an income of less than £350,000 a year, seeking investment of between £5,000 and £25,000 a year, for projects lasting up to two years. 

The projects should take place within a small area for a small group of people, such as 20 or 30 streets or a couple of villages.

John Hume, chief executive of People's Health Trust, said of the scheme: 'We're looking to support ideas designed and run by local people which help create even stronger links and ties within communities. Whether it's a tenants and residents' mediation group or a computer skills group for older people, we're interested to hear about it.

'Applying couldn't be easier — it's about local people telling us what would make their local community an even better place to grow, live, work and age. It's an online process with a step by step guide from start to finish.'

The closing date for applications is midday on Monday, July 15.

l To find out more about Active Communities, visit http://www.peopleshealthtrust.org.uk">www.peopleshealthtrust.org.uk