But grant is �20,000 less than financial support given two years ago.

East Devon District Council has once again decided to support a local charity, despite cutting their funding by a third.

The Lottery-supported East Devon Volunteer Support Agency (EDVSA) did not apply for a grant last year, but in 2007/8 the council supported the agency’s work to the tune of �30,000.

A meeting, attended by members of the district council yesterday (Wednesday), decided the umbrella organisation, which supports a wide range of voluntary and community groups, would now receive a grant of only �10,000.

The cuts are a �20,000 reduction compared to previous support.

Councillor Christine Drew said: “Although East Devon District Council has had to make drastic savings due to the economic downturn, to cut funding completely for this support group would have been detrimental to its work.

“Without core funding, EDVSA would find it difficult to not only support the voluntary and community sector in East Devon but to also host projects for the benefit of the community in the future.”

EDVSA comprises 24 voluntary members, who provide independent support, advice and guidance to groups in East Devon.

They offer free, impartial support and host a number of projects including, mental health and wellbeing, patient and public involvement and a homework club.

Cllr Drew added: “I will be able to monitor the work they do. We will be bringing all the groups that receive funding from EDDC to Scrutiny Committees in future.”