A VITAL local funding body which has awarded more than £300,000 to groups across Inverclyde is urging community organisations to put themselves in line for a cash boost. 

Inverclyde Community Fund (ICF) has shared £308,508 across 208 local organisations since it was set up in 2012. 

The ICF board awards cash injections to local groups on a rolling basis throughout each financial year. 

Chair and trustee Keith Wimbles said the board are always looking for new projects to support and has urged community organisations to throw their hats into the ring. 

He added: "This is local money administered by local people.

"There's so much need in Inverclyde and these are really challenging times for everyone.

"We need groups to let us know who they are, what they do, and how we can help."

The board awards small grants of less than £1,000 through its central grant programme which has been funded through self-generated income and an initial cash injection from CVS Inverclyde. 

READ MORE: Performers audition for Recovery's Got Talent in Greenock

It also provides cash awards through the Inverclyde Windfarm Fund in partnership with Inverclyde Renewables LLP, and has funding set aside which is awarded in the form of sustainable development grants up to £5,000.

The board can also introduce themed grants to meet the needs of the community. 

Keith added: "At the end of 2022, we offered winter grants in response to the cost of living crisis. 

"The response was incredible. 

"Our board is made up of people who have great knowledge and experience across a range of different sectors and are tuned in to everything that's going on.

"We're always mindful of what's going on in our communities and we have to be adaptable to the needs of local people."

Keith said the main focus of the fund will always be to 'make a difference to peoples lives'. 

He added: "We are so lucky to have the privilege of supporting so many great third sector organisations in Inverclyde."

To find out more about the fund visit www.inverclydecommunityfund.org