A community transport grant is now available for local transport schemes across Dorset.

MoneyDorset County Council are offering grants of up to £5,000 to support communities who want to set up their own transport scheme. Grants are also available to existing schemes.

The community transport grant will fund costs associated with starting up and operating a scheme. These include vehicle purchase costs, IT software that supports effective operation, marketing of schemes and training of staff or volunteers.

The grant is a match funding grant, and applicants will need to demonstrate a clear outcome and show that at least 50% of costs are met from other sources.

Cllr Peter Finney, Cabinet member for environment, said:  “Organisations and local groups are being encouraged to apply for the community transport  grants, to provide services for our residents who are unable to use public transport.

“We want to support voluntary sector organisations to deliver independent, sustainable services for the residents of Dorset.”