THOUSANDS of pounds have been made available to help improve communities in South Gloucestershire.

Nearly £40,000 is up for grabs under the Safer and Stronger Communities Groups Initiative Fund which is co-ordinated and funded by South Gloucestershire Council.

Philip Moss, interim head of Safer and Stronger Communities at the council, said: "These grants can offer a much-needed boost to small local community projects that make our areas safer and stronger. "We would advise all community organisers to check if their project ideas meet the assessment criteria and to apply for support."

Voluntary and community organisations which are actively involved with the police-led Safer and Stronger Community Groups can apply for the money.

For further information call 01454 865684 or email sscg@southglos.gov.uk