LCVS has called on Liverpool's third sector to consider applying for a new fund, aimed at helping families and individuals avoid financial difficulties.

The £30m 'Improving Financial Confidence' programme run by the Big Lottery Fund offers grants worth between £500,000 and £1m for projects lasting three to five years. Schemes will have to be delivered by partnerships led by voluntary sector organisations.

The aim of the programme is to give people more confidence and skills in accessing and using financial services, such as bank accounts and affordable loans.

The fund will focus on helping social housing residents, in particular those who have been moving in and out of work, are in the first 12 months of their tenancies or who are young.

Voluntary sector partnerships are expected to include at least one major housing association and other relevant organisations from the area. 

For more information on the fund, timescales and guidance visit the Improving Financial Confidence web page.