Community groups in and around Didcot have been invited to prepare their applications for a fund which is set to open at the start of December.

The Didcot Powerhouse Fund will welcome applications for grants from Monday, December 2, with the theme for this year's grants being 'local support for those who need it most'.

To date, the fund has awarded 56 grants, amounting to nearly £300,000, to charities and community groups in and around Didcot.

These grants have been used to deliver essential support services to their communities.

Over the past three years, the fund has supported various organisations, improving the lives of people of all ages and levels of need.

Elizabeth Paris, chair of Powerhouse, said: "It’s inspiring to hear from our grant recipients how Powerhouse funding has enabled them to help individuals overcome personal barriers which can be physical, mental, or both.

"We are grateful for all the support we have received from our donors and community fundraisers to be able to achieve this."

Didcot Baby Monday has received grants in all three years that the Powerhouse Fund has been running.

The organisation's CEO, Kath Goldsby-West, said: "This funding has been vital in enabling us to increase our skills and capacity, so we can provide expectant and new parents in the area with more support, helping them navigate the challenges of early parenthood, connect with each other, and get off to a positive and confident start."

Steve James, co-founder of The Cornermen, which has also received funding, added: "Our grants have been directed towards helping men going through periods of emotional or mental health distress, with many also experiencing suicidal ideations.

"We have seen an increase in demand for our service, which offers one to one support but also group activities.

"Receiving the two grants from Powerhouse has been a huge help to ensure we can keep offering our vital service to local men."

Croft Associates, a new Powerhouse donor in 2024, has already extended its involvement with Powerhouse.

Project assistant, Abbie Johnson, said: "We are keen to donate our voluntary expertise to Powerhouse grant recipients as well as our money as we understand what a power for good these organisations are.

"What they often lack is the regular, practical support that trusted volunteers can provide."

Didcot Powerhouse Fund has posted information about next steps and grant criteria on its website.

An Oxfordshire Community Foundation webinar on December 9, set to take place from 1pm to 2pm, will provide more information about the application process.

Oxfordshire Community Foundation administers The Didcot Powerhouse Fund.