OTTERY St Mary Town Council have urged projects and groups hoping for financial support from them to be aware of a new submissions procedure.

OTTERY St Mary Town Council have urged projects and groups hoping for financial support from them to be aware of a new submissions procedure.

The council has a budget each year to provide financial support to local groups and projects. The Council will look at each application on its merits, but will expect you to show how the money will benefit the community. You should also show that you are making reasonable efforts to raise your own funds.

The council will need to be satisfied that your organisation will use the money effectively and that it is well managed. If the application is successful, the Council will expect its contribution to be acknowledged in any publicity about the project. Town Councillors may wish to visit the project/scheme or receive written feedback on the impact of any assistance they may grant.

Who can apply?

Any organisation based in the parish of Ottery St Mary Town Council including the Town Ward, West Hill Ward, Tipton St John Ward and North Ward which is, or wishes to provide direct benefit to the residents of those areas can apply for a grant. Grants to national organisations will only be made to local branches where the grant can be seen to directly benefit those residents. It is not possible for the council to make grants to individuals.

How is an application made?

1. Application forms are available from the Town Clerk at the Council Offices

2. Read these notes carefully and ensure that all questions on the form are answered

3. If you are in any doubt please contact the Town Clerk and ask for guidance.

4. Complete the form and return to the Town Council office with all supporting documentation by 31st October.

5. Organisations may only submit one application per year, except in exceptional circumstances.

What happens next?

Grants are normally considered in November each year. Cheques will be presented to successful applicants at the Annual Parish meeting which is usually held in April. Your application will be acknowledged and we will tell you the date of the meeting at which your application will be considered. We will contact you as soon as possible after the full Council meeting to let you know what has been decided.