NON-profit-making groups in Whitehill and Bordon can apply for grants of between £500 and £1,500 toward projects that promote a healthy lifestyle.

Earlier this year, Whitehill and Bordon was awarded NHS England Healthy New Town status.

The new community grants are part of this initiative. They aim to encourage non-profit-making groups to increase and improve activities promoting healthy living. The grants can support a wide range of projects: using open spaces; delivering a “healthy food environment”; helping people to stay in their own homes safely for as long as possible; support for people with long-term conditions; walking and cycling initiatives; reducing unhealthy weights of children and more.

Claire Coxwell, community development worker from the charity Community First, said: “This is a real opportunity for the voluntary sector to contribute to the NHS Healthy New Towns initiative. Charities and community groups with their volunteers play a vital role in adding value to the NHS and other statutory services.

“In Whitehill and Bordon, there is a vibrant voluntary sector supporting health and wellbeing. Hospice Services from Home (TLC) offers support to families and carers of people with life-limiting illnesses. Walking for Health organises a programme of volunteer-led weekly walks in the countryside promoting fitness and wellbeing. The Deadwater Valley Trust runs regular conservation groups and encourages people with mental-health issues to develop new skills, regain confidence and move forward on their path of recovery. There are others.”

Ingrid Thomas, East Hampshire District Council’s portfolio holder for welfare, said: “The regeneration of Whitehill and Bordon offers us all, as a community, many superb opportunities to work together to create a healthy and long-lasting life. By offering grants to active groups and charities, the money can be directed to where it is most needed.

“We look forward to seeing and taking part in many of the projects funded in this way. Whitehill and Bordon should become a sought-after place to live and work in as a healthy environment.”

* There is a total of £5,000 available to groups. The deadline for applications is December 7 and projects must be delivered by the end of March 2017. For further information about the grants contact Gemma Booty at East Hampshire District Council on 01730 234329 or e-mail [email protected].