Western Power Distribution (WPD) is calling on Penarth charities and community groups to apply for grants of up to £10,000 from its annual Community Matters Fund.

Charities, councils, and community groups can apply for grants to spend on projects that aim to stamp out loneliness and isolation, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is the latest round of grants from WPD's annual £1 million Community Matters Fund, which has already supported more than 100 grassroots companies with crucial fuel poverty grants.

WPD is looking to partner with community groups and organisations in Penarth to achieve positive change and is welcoming applications from a diverse range of community groups and charities.

Alison Sleightholm, Resources & External Affairs Director at WPD, said: "COVID-19 has had a significant impact on people's mental health over the past two years, and lockdowns and social distancing measures have undoubtedly led to feelings of loneliness and isolation.

"We are committed to taking the lead on this emerging issue, helping provide crucial interventions and preventing further increases in mental health issues."

She continued: "WPD is looking to support and partner with community groups and organisations to achieve positive change. With loneliness and tackling social exclusion as the core topic, we open the doors to funding applications from all generational and diverse community groups and organisations."

To help guide applications, examples of the types of projects the Community Matters Fund will consider supporting are:

1. Digital skills and inclusion projects
2. Social inclusion and connectedness projects
3. Mental health interventions
4. Employability skills
5. Projects increasing community access to outside space
6. Inter-generational support projects
7. Befriending services
8. Innovative solutions to combating loneliness.