New initiative to boost charity groups' funding

A NEW initiative to help charitable groups get funding has been launched in the Lothians.

The new Open4Communities grant finder website offers information about funding, including European, national and local schemes, and can be accessed by all local residents.

It also offers help finding funding alongside hints and tips about submitting funding applications, as well as information for people working in the public sector.

The website has been set up by West Lothian Council, in partnership with Midlothian and East Lothian councils.

Martyn Day, executive councillor for transport and Development at West Lothian Council, said: "We know that groups are struggling to find funding in the current economic climate and felt that it was important to support local people.

Jim Gallacher, of West Lothian's Voluntary Sector Gateway West Lothian said: "We are looking forward to having this resource."