CHARITIES are being urged to apply for grants from the Healthwatch Essex Fund.

The fund was established in 2016 by Healthwatch Essex, which supports health and social care services in the county.

Up until now, Healthwatch Essex has given out grants totalling £150,000 to support charities and voluntary organisations to carry out a range of healthcare projects. Past recipients include Action for Family Carers and Community Print, which supports people living with mental health problems.

Dr David Sollis, chief executive of Healthwatch Essex, said: “There are some amazing charities and voluntary groups in Essex and the work they do is crucial in ensuring people get the support they need. In many cases they are the best placed organisations in the community to connect with local people and to help people in need navigate the right path to appropriate support.”

There are two categories available for applicants. Charities can apply for small grants of up to £10,000 and larger grants of up to £35,000.

The grants close on Wednesday, September 22.

On Wednesday, August 16 Essex Community Foundation will take in calls from 10am to noon from candidates who require guidance for their application.

Call 01245 356018 on the day to participate.