CHARITIES and community groups have until next week to apply for share of a £3million funding pot.

Launched last month, the People’s Postcode Lottery’s Dream Fund wants to turn people’s visions into reality.

The fund encourages collaboration between charities and good causes, bringing them together to apply for funding to finance their dream project.

It is something the postcode lottery team have always wanted to deliver but never had the opportunity to develop.

MP Alan Brown feels it is an opportunity not to be missed and said: “I know from the groups I meet how much great work goes on locally. I would urge these groups to consider this alternate funding stream in order to build on the fantastic work they already do.

“People’s Postcode Lottery’s Dream Fund gives charities the opportunity to be bold and courageous.

“This is an exciting opportunity for charities across our communities to work together to develop their dream project.

“I urge charities to be creative and ambitious and remind them to get their applications in before the deadline.”

Funding from the scheme, now in its eighth year, will be offered over two years from 2018.

This year’s prize fund is the largest ever with a top award of £1million, from a total pot of £3million.

To date the Dream Fund has invested more than £7.3m in 24 projects across the UK, including Heritage Heroes, which supports retired military veterans.

Postcode Dream Trust is encouraging applications to Dream Fund 2018 from projects that fit within one or more of the charitable purposes which include— supporting families; improving people’s lives through animals; green communities and increasing life chances for young people.

Applications are open until Tuesday, August 22. Winners will be announced in January 2018. Please visit www.postcodedreamtrust.org.uk to apply today.