TIME is running out for Lancashire’s community groups to apply for funding from the Small Grants Scheme.

To apply for a grant, voluntary, community and faith sector groups that are registered with the county council’s young people’s service have until February 6 to discuss their application with the manager at their local young people’s service office.

Grants are available for camping equipment, sports equipment, books and uniform to attend a college course, respite activities such as a day trip to Blackpool Pleasure Beach, or projects that encourage employment and skills development, health awareness, educational development, citizenship, civic pride and volunteering.

Grants are usually awarded for relatively small amounts of money and for one-off or short term projects.

Applications are submitted to and approved by County Councillor Mark Perks, cabinet member for young people’s services.

Coun Perks said: “Local groups and voluntary organisations do valuable work and rely on funding to carry out important and vital work in our communities.

“The council works closely with voluntary groups and recognises the challenges they face in these difficult economic times. We appreciate the hours of voluntary work many people do in their own time with the county’s young people.”

Find out more at www.lancashire. gov.uk/yps