Community groups and parish councils in the Vale of White Horse can benefit from around £200,000 from the district council. One pot of funding is for areas that have experienced an increase in the number of houses. Recent projects funded by the council include redeveloping Harwell village hall and supporting carers in Wantage. There’s also money available for areas who haven’t got extra houses, so for any local communities or parishes planning improvements like building new skate parks or play areas, upgrading sports pavilions, and purchasing defibrillators. Applications for both rounds of funding close on Friday 6 May 2016. Councillor Elaine Ware, cabinet member for grants, said: “It’s important to build a sense of community in our neighbourhoods, especially those getting new houses. The money can be used for all kinds of things, like new equipment, building improvements or new computers” “Please get in touch with our grants team, even if you just want to ask some questions – they can point you in the right direction and give you the help you need.” Contact the grants team for some application advice at grants@southandvale.gov.uk or on 01235 540525. You can also visit our website www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/grants to register and start an application for either scheme before 6 May 2016.