But applications must reach council by Friday June 27

Financial support is available for local groups that are looking for help to cover transport costs for day trips.

Hammersmith & Fulham Council has announced it will run its Coach Voucher Scheme this year – offering borough-based groups a cash contribution of £200 towards the costs of hiring private transport.

Top priority is given to unfunded pensioners’ groups, but any surplus vouchers will be awarded to other community and voluntary organisations in the borough.

The council’s cabinet member for social inclusion, Councillor Sue Fennimore, said: "We are committed to supporting local groups that provide valuable community services.

"This scheme helps a variety of different groups but has a particular focus on those for older people, whose opportunities to get out and about and enjoy sustained periods of social interaction can sometimes be limited.

"We don’t want transport costs to be a barrier preventing these groups from taking their members on trips."

In order to be eligible to apply applicants:

• Must be based in H&F and be mostly made up of people living in the borough.
• Should have a local management committee.
• Be able to show how they serve women, black & ethnic minority communities and disabled people.
• Have an income of less than £7,500.

Groups run by statutory organisations such as the council or NHS Trusts are not eligible.

Application packs will automatically be sent to those organisations who have applied in the past – but if you would like to request an application pack or have any other questions, contact Jan Clarke on 020 8753 2187.

The closing date for applications is Friday, June 27, 2014.

June 23, 2014