Community Links Bromley (CLB) and Blueprint for All have launched the National Lottery Community fund; Covid grant giving scheme in Bromley and Lewisham.

The scheme intends to provide grants of up to £20,000 for local voluntary and community groups to deliver activities specifically aimed to support communities through the pandemic.

The grant giving scheme intends to bring £237,500 of funding for the sector into the two boroughs.

The scheme opened on Thursday, January 20 and closes on Monday February 14.

In announcing the launch of the scheme Christopher Evans, Chief Executive of CLB said: “The award of such a substantial sum to Bromley and Lewisham at this time is greatly appreciated.

“We know from our regular contact with groups and organisations within the borough of the struggles and challenges that they have faced over the past 2 years.

“This will provide a much-needed boost to the sector as it adjusts to the changing demands placed on it.

“I am delighted to be working alongside Chelsea and her colleagues at Blueprint for All in Lewisham to deliver the scheme.”

The scheme was first launched at its annual general meeting on Wednesday, January 19.

The AGM provides an opportunity to look back over what has been a challenging year and to highlight the achievements of the voluntary sector – with attendance of the mayor of Bromley Councilor Russell L.

Chelsea Way, Head of Operations at Blueprint for All said: “We couldn’t be happier to be working closely with our partners to launch this scheme and deliver some much needed funds for voluntary and community groups in Bromley and Lewisham.

“It’s some welcome relief in what has been a testing period during the pandemic to say the least.”