Voluntary and community groups in Dorset are being advised that round eight of the county council's Community and Culture Project Fund is now open for applications.

The grants, which are managed by Dorset Council, welcome applications for projects and events for community, arts, accredited museums, heritage, sport, youth, play and physical activity.

Up to £5,000 is available for projects that bring communities across Dorset together.

Over the last year, more than £100,000 has been awarded from the funds to a wide range of projects across the Dorset Council area.

A total of £54,625 was awarded to14 organisations covering a diverse range of projects ranging from skateboarding initiatives for low-income families to theatre experiences for individuals living with profound learning difficulties. 

In addition, 12 grants totalling £39,879 were awarded to support projects such as food banks, cookery classes, climate and environmental green initiatives as well as projects designed to support young people and families.

The Dorset Community Foundation also awarded a further £6,300 to three deserving applicants who met the criteria for the Dorset Performing Arts Fund. 

Cllr Ryan Hope, Dorset Council Cabinet Member for Customer, Culture and Community Engagement at Dorset Council said: "The work of community groups and voluntary organisations help make Dorset a vibrant and supportive county.

"The grants have been a real success, and we have seen many exciting projects launched for the benefit of local communities. 

"We look forward to receiving applications from new and existing community groups and organisations over the next few weeks."

The funding is a small project grant, funding up to 80% of total project costs. Match funding covering 20% of the costs must be met by your organisation

Grants are from £1,000 to £5,000 depending on the project. Applications close at midnight on Monday 18 November. 

Find out more about how to apply at website.