Northamptonshire County Council to set up Big Society fund

A £100,000 Big Society fund is to be set up to help support local organisations in Northamptonshire.

Groups with schemes aimed at improving community life or meeting local concerns can apply to Northamptonshire County Council for grants of between £10,000 and £20,000 a year.

Community groups, charities and private organisations can apply for the cash.

The final shortlist will be looked at by a panel made up of councillors, local youth and media representatives.

There will also be a representative from the private sector.

The plan for the fund will be considered by the council's cabinet committee on 13 September.

Grants will not be available for political activities and those exclusively promoting religion or religious behaviour, according to a report to the council.