Groups and organisations working with vulnerable communities in Staffordshire are set to benefit from a new county council fund.

The #DoingOurBit Covid-19 Self Isolators Grants Scheme is now accepting applications from groups who support vulnerable people who must self-isolate because they have tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with others who have.

Projects that have a track record of supporting individuals to self-isolate by providing help with accessing food or shopping, daily essentials, pet care, wellbeing and emotional support are likely to be eligible.

Groups working with vulnerable older people, lone parents, vulnerable families, unpaid carers and those living with disabilities are being particularly encouraged to make an application.

The fund is making £160,000 available and the amount of grant that groups can apply for varies, depending on the area they cover.

Small village or community groups can apply for up to £1,500 with larger countywide organisations being allowed to apply for up to £12,000.

Victoria Wilson, Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture at Staffordshire County Council said: "We recognise that there is an ongoing need to support residents who must self-isolate when they test positive for COVID-19 or are a close contact, which is why we have introduced our new fund.

"Making sure that people who test positive can safely self-isolate is one of our best defences against the virus to stop it spreading.

"We have a thriving voluntary and community sector in Staffordshire and throughout the pandemic we have seen how they have rallied to support their residents. It's these organisations and volunteers who make a real difference to the lives of people in our local communities every day.

"The scheme is now open for applications and I would encourage organisations to check if they are eligible and make an application."

People can find out more, check eligibility and make an application here.

The funding is limited and will be offered on a first come first served basis.

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