31 October 2000

National Lottery Charities Board opens new International grants programme

Application lines for the Charities Board's new International grants programme open today.

In this programme the Charities Board will fund development projects which help address the causes of poverty and inequality and make a significant improvement to some of the most vulnerable people in the world.

The programme is aimed at UK-based charities and voluntary organisations working with partner organisations overseas. It will also fund UK organisations working with partners on development education in the UK.

To date the Charities Board has funded a total of £106.9 million to 527 UK-based voluntary organisations working abroad. Organisations awarded a grant under previous International programmes can apply to fund a project under this new programme.

People who may benefit from the new programme include those without adequate food, clean water and shelter; those who lack proper healthcare or education or a reliable means of making a living; and those who are victims of war and oppression.

Application lines close on 26 January 2001. The deadline for the receipt of completed applications is 5pm on 16 March 2001. The Charities Board expects to announce grants in late Summer 2001.

For an application pack telephone 0845 7919191 (Minicom: 0845 7556656) or visit our website at www.nlcb.org.uk Applicants who prefer to apply in Welsh should telephone 0845 7273273. (Minicom: 01686 610205).

Media enquiries: Robert Blow 020 7747 5227