Communities urged to apply for SOS funding for village schemes

Friday, August 17, 2012
3:05 PM

Rural communities wanting to set up new social enterprises have just under a month left to apply for the Big Lottery Fund’s Village SOS scheme.

Village SOS makes grants of between £10,000 and £50,000 to rural communities who want to set up new social enterprises such as shops, cafes, pubs, transport schemes, community broadband and energy projects.

North Norfolk MP Norman Lamb said: “I think many people are not aware that this kind of help is available. The scheme is specifically aimed at small rural communities across the country and it could really benefit Norfolk villages.

“If you have a project in mind but lack the funds to make it happen, do think about applying to Village SOS.

“Voluntary and community groups, charities, village associations, local co-operatives and parish and town councils are all able to apply, provided that local residents have truly shaped the project.”

Applications are welcomed from communities with a population of fewer than 3,000 people and must reach Village SOS by 2pm on September 12.

For more information and to check eligibility, visit www.villagesos.org.uk.