More than £200k committed to community projects

The Garibaldi Community Pub in Redhill, which will benefit from some of the funding, runs community services to improve mental health, community cohesion and reduce isolation

More than £200,000 has been committed to projects by voluntary and community organisations across east Surrey.

Reigate and Banstead Borough Council has allocated £104k from its new Thriving Communities Fund towards the scheme, which will then be match funded by the 27 groups receiving the cash injection.

That money is set to help a number of initiatives, from bereavement counselling for young people to local Diwali celebrations and therapeutic support for those with motor neuron conditions.

The council said it wanted to "enable strong, inclusive communities and empower local people".

Also among the borough-wide initiatives to benefit are play sessions for families with children under five, youthwork and outreach services and drug and alcohol education for 11 to 18 year olds.

In addition, there will be workshops with animals and nature to promote wellbeing and communication classes for people with hearing or sight loss.

Cultural projects include contributions to the Gatton Community Theatre in Reigate and to existing community services to improve mental health, community cohesion and reduce isolation at the Garibaldi Community Pub in Redhill.

The work will "promote cultural activities, environmental sustainability or healthy living and provide support during significant life events or hardship".

Councillor James Baker, executive member for community partnerships, said: "We're incredibly proud to support our voluntary and community sector.

"These funded projects represent the heart of our borough and are driven by passion, innovation and a deep commitment to improving lives and helping our communities to thrive."