Applications are now open for Dorset charities to apply for £300 to £3,000 grants for their causes.

Hall & Woodhouse, an independent family-owned brewer, has launched its 22nd Community Chest Awards which gives charitable organisations the opportunity to seek support from the £50,000 funds it has put aside.

The funding is available to a broad range of charities and community projects, from local village halls and cultural organisations to charities that assist with poverty, social isolation, and specialist health needs.

Mark Woodhouse, Family Director of Hall & Woodhouse, said: “Hall & Woodhouse’s company purpose is to enrich our local communities and I hope that the Community Chest will once again play an important role in supporting the many great voluntary organisations in our trading area across the south. It’s a privilege to support charities and the vital projects that make such a difference to their local communities.

“This year, we look forward to learning about all the amazing work being done in our trading area to improve living conditions for people in need.”

Since the Community Chest was established in 2002, the company has donated over £750,000 to more than 900 good causes across its trade area and works in partnership with both the Dorset and Sussex Community Foundations.

Entrants have until Saturday, July 15 to submit their grant applications and can be downloaded via www.hall-woodhouse.co.uk/community-chest and then emailed to communitychest@hall-woodhouse.co.uk for consideration.

Successful applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application in November 2023, with an awards ceremony to be held in January 2024.