A new fund worth £500,000 has been launched by National Grid Electricity Distribution to support 'green' community spaces in Glastonbury and across Somerset.

The Green Spaces Fund is part of the Community Matters Fund and aims to enhance local environments while encouraging communities to utilise green spaces.

Since 2021, the Community Matters Fund has awarded £4.3 million to grassroots organisations, and the Green Spaces initiative is its latest phase. The fund is paid for entirely by shareholders and will offer grants of up to £2,000 for unregistered organisations, while registered charities and eligible non-profit companies can apply for up to £10,000.

Community organisations of all sizes and types, particularly those supporting vulnerable groups, are encouraged to apply. Projects that create volunteering opportunities for members of the local community are also welcomed.

The Green Spaces Community Fund is focused on supporting projects that promote biodiversity, improve air quality, reduce noise, and deliver health benefits. Additionally, it seeks to create employment opportunities and to encourage people to engage in green spaces. Projects that could be supported by the fund include planting spaces, creating new allotments, developing unused land, and improving access to existing green spaces.

Jill Russell, the Environment Manager at National Grid, said, "We believe that access to green spaces is essential for the wellbeing of both individuals and communities, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of this initiative on our communities."

The closing date for applications is Friday, May 12th. For more information about the Green Spaces Community Fund and to apply, please visit www.nationalgrid.co.uk/community-matters-fund. This initiative is a great opportunity for local organisations to create thriving green spaces that benefit everyone in the community.