VOLUNTARY organisations are being invited to apply for a share of Inverclyde Council’s Grants Fund.

More than £215,000 has been set aside for the financial year 2012-13 and applications received by Friday 15 June will be considered by the Grants Sub Committee.

Committee chairman Councillor Jim Clocherty said: "Voluntary organisations make an important contribution to the quality of life of people in Inverclyde and it is vital they are given all the financial support that is available to allow them to keep up their good work.

In the past year we have helped many voluntary organisations from senior citizens groups to sports clubs. The application forms have been simplified to help groups to apply. I urge any group or club to take the time to read the guidance notes and, if appropriate, submit an application form.”

The Grants to Voluntary Organisations Fund is aimed at helping small local voluntary organisations with a variety of expenses including running costs, developing or starting up a new project or buying equipment.

Michael Marner of Larkfield Amateur Boxing Club, left, and Councillor Clocherty.

Larkfield Amateur Boxing Club in Greenock has been granted £3,000 a year along with other sporting clubs in Inverclyde. Club Head Coach Michael Marner said: "Without the grant we would struggle to stay open, it is as simple as that. We get up to 30 boys in the club three nights a week. It gives them something really positive to do rather than hang around on the streets. The fund is a lifeline for us and it is a straightforward process to apply.”

Councillor Clocherty added "In addition we also fund a number of groups though our commission process. These groups will receive their cheques totalling over £140,000 in the next couple of weeks, again showing the council’s commitment in supporting voluntary organisations within Inverclyde.”

Guidance notes and application forms are available to download from the Council’s website www.inverclyde.gov.uk, from Safer & Inclusive Communities, 40 West Stewart Street, Greenock PA14 1YA, by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by calling 01475 714 298.