GROUPS have received £480,000 worth of funding for military civilian projects.

Four organisations will benefit from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund which provides grants for community projects bringing civilian and military communities together.

The Warrior Programme will allow RAF and Royal Navy families and veterans to benefit from a share of a £300,000 grant which aims to help service people suffering from stress.

A £150,000 grant will allow Test Valley Community Services to fund parenting courses for families of Army personnel at bases across the south, including Tidworth Garrison.

The organisation aims to build strong communities through community action and to support the needs of the most vulnerable members of service communities.

Zouch Academy, Tidworth, is creating a forest school where its 300 pupils can enjoy lessons outdoors.

The fund has donated £16,459 to the project at the nursery and primary school, where many pupils come from forces families.

Wilton Community Land Trust was given £15,228 to build a Men’s Shed where retired veterans especially can socialise and get involved in community projects.

Councillor Jonathon Seed, chair of the Wiltshire Local Covenant Partnership, said: “Wiltshire has strong ties with the military and I’m delighted that once again community groups have been successful in securing funding.

“In 2019 we will be welcoming more service personnel to Wiltshire as part of the Army Basing Programme and forging strong military and civilian integration is more important than ever.

“I would encourage local groups working with business and veterans or relocated spouses who have ideas for the future, to share their ideas with us so we can provide the advice and support to prepare their bid for the next round of funding.”

Applications for the next round of local grants are now open.

Visit gov.uk/government/publications/covenant-fund-guidance-on-how-to-apply for more information about the scheme and to apply for funding, or contact CorporateBusinessSupport@wiltshire.gov.uk.