Community integration fund open to applicants

Sir, The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust local grants and digital development programme is open for applications until September 30. The trust provides funding for projects bringing civilian and armed forces communities together. In line with the guidance for applicants, for feedback on applications send them to the Argyll and Bute Local Covenant Partnership for consideration at its next meeting on September 14. The programme makes grants of up to £20,000 to projects that support community integration or local delivery of services. There are a number of strands within the programme to which projects can apply. Community Integration projects should create strong local links between the armed forces and civilian communities. Effective projects will demonstrate how improving attitudes and understanding will benefit both communities. Projects offering financial advice, housing, mental and physical health, employability or social support for serving armed forces personnel, veterans, and their families can apply to the delivery of local services fund. Projects must be well connected, both to their beneficiaries and to other relevant organisations, and be able to demonstrate how the services they provide will be well-publicised, accessible and joined up. The programme offers training and bespoke support for successful organisations. This is a fantastic fund that has, in the past, supported a really interesting variety of projects across Argyll and Bute. What they have in common is the benefits they bring to serving armed forces personnel and their families, local communities and veterans. We look forward to seeing what projects come forward in the next round of applications. Councillor Barbara Morgan, Armed Forces Champion, Argyll and Bute Council.