Community groups in Rutland could be in line for a windfall – after council chiefs announced a new funding scheme.

Rutland County Council's new small grants programme will support voluntary and community sector organisations working in the county.

The funding aims to strengthen communities, reduce rural isolation and support health and wellbeing initiatives.

Groups can apply for anything from £500 to £2,000 for projects that reduce loneliness and isolation; strengthen volunteer networks; improve access to health and wellbeing activities; or support vulnerable residents.

The programme is focused on supporting activity within Rutland's rural communities and is funded by money from Public Health, Rutland's Integrated Care Board (ICB) and Rutland County Council.

Only groups that meet eligibility criteria and operate within Rutland can apply for a grant. Successful projects must also be delivered between now and next March.

Children and families boss Coun Tim Smith said: "Our new small grants programme aims to give community organisations a boost and allow them to do more. We're fortunate in Rutland that we have lots of community groups and volunteers who make it their mission to help people. 

"Many of these groups are working to achieve the same outcomes as public health and care services. Like us, they want to help people stay healthy and well. 

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"By giving small grants to these community organisations, we hope to strengthen and increase the support that's available to people throughout Rutland. We're excited to hear from these groups about how our funding could help them."

Any groups or organisations that are interested in applying for funding from the new fund can go to rutland.gov.uk/smallgrants 

Applications open from May 4 and close on May 22 giving groups one month seek guidance from the council and prepare their bids.