VOLUNTARY groups in the North-East have less than two weeks left to try to secure funds in a Dragon’s Den-style scheme from the NHS.

The NHS Durham Dales, Easington and Sedgefield Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) are offering funds through a Mental Health and Wellbeing Innovation Grant.

The group has £100,000 to split amongst groups. Applicants are being asked to pitch their ideas to a panel of Dragons, which includes doctors, to secure the money.

Local community and voluntary groups in the Durham Dales, Easington and Sedgefield can apply for the money.

Annie Dolphin, the lay chairwoman of the CCG, said: “There are many fantastic and imaginative voluntary and community organisations operating within our area.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for us as a CCG to find out more about the difference they make to the lives of local people.”

Groups can bid for funds of between £2,500 and £10,000 and applications must be submitted by Friday, January 3.

Further details on the application process can be found at durhamdaleseasingtonsedgefieldccg.nhs.uk

Details can also be obtained from Sue Frater on 0191-374-4225 or via necsu.planning@nhs.net