Grants of up to £500 are being offered to community organisations to help fund wildlife projects.

The grants could be put towards creating or restoring wildlife habitats, monitoring wildlife, or for educational initiatives. The scheme aims to provide an easy way for community groups to obtain small amounts of funding to kickstart their groups and initiatives, and get access to advice, equipment, and other resources.

The scheme is being managed by Devon Communities Together and has been funded by the Devon Environment Foundation, which has increased the total pot to £10,000 for this round.

Amanda Keetley, executive director of the Devon Environment Foundation, said: “DEF was delighted by how many community wildlife projects were able to start up or expand last year as a result of the new Wild About Devon scheme. We’re excited to be able to double the amount of funding this year to encourage even more positive action for nature in Devon.”

Rod Birtles, Project Manager at Devon Communities Together, said: “This is a great opportunity for communities to get together and support the wildlife in their local area. This could be by creating or restoring a wildlife space or through monitoring and education. Projects could take place in gardens, parks, green spaces, churchyards, orchards, ponds and ditches, buildings, and more. We’re excited to support communities in Devon to provide lots of long-term benefits for wildlife.”

In the previous round, 27 community organisations used the total £5,000 funding to create 15 new wildlife groups, restore neglected habitats and create new ones, and set up monitoring of local wildlife. A total of 420 people within communities across Devon were involved with the projects.

Applications are open to parish and town councils, community groups, and community partnerships who want to fund initiatives that benefit local wildlife. This could include paying for the development of a new idea, continuing an existing project, or starting a new group. Collaborative partnership amongst groups is welcomed but the application will have to be made by a lead partner.

More information about the scheme and guidance for applicants can be found on the Devon Communities Together website.