The scheme is operated through the Healthier Chichester Partnership, with funding from West Sussex Primary Care Trust, Chichester District Council and West Sussex County Council (Adult Services).

Grants of up to £2,000 are available, and the partnership is particularly keen to encourage new organisations who wish to provide support services within their local community.

To qualify for a grant, organisations must be operating on a not-for-profit basis, as a Health or Social Care provider in the community, or be able to show that their services include a significant proportion of community support. They must also be based in the Chichester District, or provide services to residents in the district.

The grants are designed to support daily running and support costs, such as office equipment, salaries, staff training, volunteer expenses and project development.

Many elderly or vulnerable people need support within their own homes and communities. The type of support ranges from social visits to specific help with home repairs, gardening and transport. This support is often needed after a period spent in hospital or after a period of social services care. Young people may also need additional support within their communities, and those living in rural areas can experience particular difficulties.

Preference will be given to organisations that can show they are addressing all or some of these difficulties.

District Councillor Heather Caird, Portfolio Holder for Health, said,

“Previous recipients of these grants have used the funding to develop their projects. They have found that the additional money has made a real difference to their organisations and the lives of the people they support.”

To find out more about the scheme, or to request an application form, please contact Elaine Thomas at Chichester District Council, on 01243 785166 or email This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it . Applications must be received by 30 November 2006.

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