COUNCIL chiefs are calling on groups to come forward with innovative ideas to create a fairer Trafford.

The Promoting and Advancing Equality Grant Programme 2014-15 is looking for voluntary and community groups to deliver projects in the area's communities.

Groups are encouraged to bid for a share of the £30,000 pot. Grants of up to £5,000 are available for innovative projects that aim to reduce social isolation in the area.

The fund will open for applications from July 18. Thrive Trafford is hosting a series of drop-in sessions and anyone interested in finding out more about the scheme is invited to attend one of them.

They take place at the following locations -

* July 31 – noon-2pm – Sale Point, Washway Rd

* August 13 – 3pm-5pm – Partington Library,

* August 22 10am-noon – Stretford Childrens Centre

* September 1 – 12pm-2pm- Old Trafford Community Centre

* September 9 –3-5pm – Broomwood Community Centre

Applications will be shortlisted by members of the Diverse Communities Board.

Chairman of the Diverse Communities Board, Ralph Rudden, launched the fund and said, ‘Social isolation can be an issue for anyone. There are sections of our community who for various reasons do not to engage with the wider world. The Diverse Communities Board is working in partnership with Thrive Trafford to deliver this funding for projects which will provide a vital lifeline for isolated residents of Trafford.’

The deadline for applications is September 12 at 1pm. Applications received after the deadline will not be accepted. For more information about the scheme, and to download the application form and guidance visit the Thrive Website at www.thrivetrafford.org.uk .