Littlehampton Town Council's annual Grant Aid programme has launched and not-for-profit groups and charities can now register their interest in applying for support. The scheme, which has been revised has been split into three steps with the first step being a pre-registration where groups express their interest in applying for a grant. After the closing date, groups will be allocated a ‘funding tier’ which will inform the maximum amount for which they can apply during the application period which starts in March.

Chair of the Community Resources Committee, Councillor Sean Lee, said: “Any organisation that provides a service to the Littlehampton area could be eligible for a grant. It could be that you provide cultural enrichment or engagement; advice, guidance and support on social issues; or access to sporting or artistic community activities and/or services; or simply be involved with a youth group. If it’s any or all of these then you should register your interest with us!  New organisations are always welcome as well as those we supported previously. If you are part of a voluntary group and in need of funds, please take a look at the criteria online and register your interest as soon as possible."

In 2023, the Council awarded grants to 28 groups for a variety of resources and services including Turning Tides who received £925 to purchase raised beds and gardening tools. Speaking about how the funding helped them, Employment and Skills Worker, Elise Cooper said: “The funding we received from the Town Council has enabled us to develop an underused space into a mini allotment for our community. We have been able to buy tools and equipment to meet the diverse needs of our service users making it accessible for everyone to take part in and enjoy.”

The registration window is open until Monday 19 February at 4:30pm. Applications can be made online via the Town Council’s website www.littlehampton-tc.gov.uk/grant-aid.