The Comic Relief Local Communities Fund managed by a local charity – Dorset Community Foundation is to open for application for grants of up to £5,000. Charities, community groups, resident associations, community centres, social enterprises and community interest companies are all eligible to apply.

The programme aims to empower local people, enabling them to create lasting change in their communities. Projects should be run by people directly affected by the issues they are dealing with and priority will be given to small, locally based groups or organisations in areas of disadvantage that have a clear understanding of the needs of their community.

Half of the funding for this particular round will go on projects which increase access to sport and exercise for people who face social exclusion and isolation.

Bournemouth Sports Forum for the Disabled received a grant in July for sailing trips for 160 disabled people. The group has a specially adapted 10 metre sailing catamaran called the Knoticat which gives all disabled and carers the opportunity to sail and enjoy the beautiful waters in and around Poole Harbour.

Tracy Melling, Chief Executive of the Dorset Community Foundation said: “These grants will make a huge difference to people living in the local area. We are delighted to be helping to get even more Comic Relief funding to the communities that need it most.”