Community groups, individuals and organisations have until September to apply for a share of the Community Fund.

The fund, which was set up to help with causes and projects that improve the quality of life for people in Brentwood, has £40,300 available.

Applicants can apply for grants of up to £3,500 for projects that benefit Brentwood communities. The projects must be delivered in the Borough by the end of 2016, and should demonstrate volunteer or community involvement.

Funds have previously been awarded to the Moses Basket Project who help struggling families with donations of baby equipment; Brentwood Scout Group to help with refurbishment of a scout hut and Sawyers Hall Church to enable them to provide day trips for older people.

They have also been given to Doddinghurst War Memorial Committee for the erection of a new war memorial; Essex Mental Health Charity to provide peer led Mental Health Support Groups to Brentwood residents; and Brentwood 1st Responders and Four Parishes First Responders for emergency medical equipment to support the volunteers.

Previous applicants may apply if they are proposing a new project, but priority will be given to those who have not received any previous funding from the Community Fund or the Localism Share Fund.

Brentwood Borough Council's Chair of the Community and Health Committee, Councillor Will Russell, said: "We have so many groups and organisations that make a positive contribution to people's lives in the Borough.

"Our Community Fund is an opportunity for them to get support and financial help if they need it for their projects ."

For more information, including guidance and the application form, visit the Council's website at www.brentwood.gov.uk/funding.

The deadline for applications is midnight on Sunday 6 September 2015.

For queries, please contact the Community Services Department on 01277 312500 or email localism@brentwood.gov.uk