A GRANT scheme that funds community projects which empower young people in the county to improve their lives is set to launch.

Mental health, employability and social skills development are among the kinds of projects which can be awarded a share of the £5,000 sum by the Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council (DVSC), the county’s third sector support service, as part of its Denbighshire Youth Led Grants programme.

Each applicant can apply for up to £2,500, awarded depending on whether they meet one or more of the Welsh Government’s six community wellbeing priorities: early years, better mental health, housing, skills and employability, social care and decarbonisation.

However, it will ultimately be decided by young people themselves, DVSC's youth panel, made up of people aged 14 to 25.

Helen Wilkinson, chief executive of DVSC, said: “It is timely that we focus on investing resources in young people. This is not just about the way we engage young people in volunteering opportunities, it is about meeting the needs of the new generation and empowering them as decision makers in their communities.”

Applications for the grant scheme can be made between June 5 and July 31. Winners will be announced on August 14.

DVSC will also hold a networking event at HWB Dinbych on June 4, from 6.30pm-8.30pm.

To apply for the grant scheme, call DVSC on 01824 709 317.