A FUNDING programme for community groups is looking to help more projects in east Durham after a string successes in the area.

County Durham Housing Group’s group grant scheme is looking for more applications after helping dozens of projects in east Durham.

The programme has already supported air cadets in Seaham, sports clubs in Peterlee and activities for older people in Wheatley Hill, amongst others.

More than £50,000 has been allocated to community projects right across County Durham since group grant was launched in July 2017.

The scheme provides funds of up to £500 and is designed to help new groups take their first steps as well as supporting longstanding organisations.

The application process has been kept deliberately simple and funding decisions are made monthly to ensure groups are not waiting for lengthy periods to find out if they have been successful.

Any community organisation, non-profit making group, charity or school working in east Durham is eligible for the scheme.

County Durham Housing Group funding officer, Damian Pearson, said: “Whether it’s exercise classes for older people in Horden, a basketball club in Peterlee or play activities for toddlers in Trimdon, we’ve provided funding for organisations to make it happen. But we’re on the lookout for more great ideas that could make a real impact in communities up and down east Durham.

“The process is really straightforward and has been designed with smaller groups in mind. We don’t ask for reams and reams of paperwork, we’re friendly and approachable. The main criteria we have is that the work we’re funding helps people and communities in east Durham.”

Full details are available at www.countydurhamhousinggroup.co.uk/groupgrant , by calling 0300 1311 999 or emailing groupgrant@cdhg.co.uk.