GRANTS of up to £500 for community wildlife projects in Devon.

Independent charity Devon Communities Together (DCT) has announced the launch of the second round of a Community Wildlife Grant scheme.

A DCT spokesperson said: ‘The first round was so successful that funders Devon Environment Foundation have doubled the pot, providing £10,000 for community organisations to contribute even more towards Devon’s wildlife. 

‘The programme has been developed by the Devon Local Nature Partnership (DLNP) to provide small grants of up to £500 to community wildlife projects. 

‘The aim of the grant scheme is to provide an easy way for community groups to access small amounts of funding to kickstart their groups and initiatives, as well as benefit from advice, equipment, and other resources.’

Amanda Keetley, executive director, Devon Environment Foundation said: ‘DEF was delighted by how many community wildlife projects were able to start-up or expand last year as a result of the new Wild About Devon scheme. We’re excited to be able to double the amount of funding this year to encourage even more positive action for nature in Devon.’

‘This is a great opportunity for communities to get together and support the wildlife in their local area,’ said Rod Birtles, project manager at DCT. 

‘This could be by creating or restoring a wildlife space or through monitoring and education. Projects could take place in gardens, parks, green spaces, churchyards, orchards, ponds and ditches, buildings, and more. 

‘We’re excited to support communities in Devon to provide lots of long-term benefits for wildlife.

In the previous round, 27 community organisations used the funding to create 15 new wildlife groups, restore neglected habitats and create new ones, and set up monitoring of local wildlife.

Applications are open to parish and town councils, community groups, and community partnerships that wish to fund initiatives that will benefit local wildlife. This includes funding a new idea, continuing an existing project, or starting a new group.

► Guidance for applicants may be found on the website: www.devoncommunities.org.uk

The scheme is being managed by Devon Communities Together and has been funded by Devon Environment Foundation, DCT and Devon County Council (DCC), as part of their shared commitment to help tackle the ecological emergency.

► For more information, contact Devon Communities Together either via email at [email protected] or via the telephone: 01392 248919