Community groups and organisations across the UK are being urged to apply for grants from the Electrical Safety Fund, which opened on 1 September.
A record £1 million is available this year through the initiative run by consumer safety charity Electrical Safety First. Grants of up to £5,000 will support projects that fix, protect and prevent electrical hazards in homes and communities.
Eligible schemes include repair cafes, portable appliance testing, and safer electrical installations. The fund aims to educate the public and promote safer consumer behaviour.
Last year, more than 100 projects were supported, reaching nearly half a million people and directly benefiting 47,000 individuals.
Applications close on 12 October. Local organisations are encouraged to apply early to secure funding for initiatives that reduce electrical risks and improve safety standards.
More information is available on the Electrical Safety First website.
Samuel Terry, Research and Outreach Manager at Electrical Safety First, said: “Our Electrical Safety Fund provides vital support to organisations working at the heart of their communities to keep people safe. Electricity is part of our everyday lives and often overlooked, but when the wiring or products in our homes are faulty, poorly made or misused, the consequences can be devastating.
“Last year, the fund supported more than 100 projects which reached thousands of people across the country. By backing innovative local projects that raise awareness, change behaviour and tackle dangerous electrical installations and products head-on, we can help prevent tragedies and make a real difference to people’s lives.”
Applications are encouraged from a range of not-for-profit organisations, including fire and rescue services, trading standards authorities, community safety organisations, charities and educational institutions.
Interested organisations and community groups have from Monday 1 September until Sunday 12 October to apply. To apply, please visit: https://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/fund