19 December 1997

Make a difference in the community in 1998

Charity and voluntary work should not end at Christmas, urges Tom Jones Chairman of the National Lottery Charities Board Committee in Wales. In a direct address to the public and all groups that help the disadvantaged or improve the quality of life in communities he has urged them to make the most of what the Charities Board has to offer in 1998. To date, over £39 million has been awarded to 1,178 groups in Wales.

Referring to changes in application procedures for the coming year, Tom Jones said, "We have taken significant steps to ensure that 1998 is a successful year for providing maximum assistance to the disadvantaged and reinforcing community support for all interests and ages. However, it is the voluntary groups all across Wales which are most keenly aware of the needs of their local communities and I encourage them to identify and respond to these needs and apply for grants. Of the five types of grants available this year are two programmes that will appeal to a broad range of groups namely Community involvement and Poverty; the ever popular Small grants scheme that provides up to £5,000 for immediate needs; and the more specific Health and social research and International grants programmes. While wishing all charities and voluntary groups in Wales and their clients a successful 1998, I wish to remind all that the Charities Board is here to support them."

In order for groups to plan ahead the Charities Board has produced a bilingual booklet on the new grants programmes which can be obtained by calling 0345 273273.