Douglas Alexander MP

Labour MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire South

DOUGLAS ALEXANDER MP ENCOURAGES LOCAL GROUPS TO MAKE A GLOBAL DIFFERENCE

26 Jan 2010

Douglas Alexander encourages local voluntary organisations, churches, schools and others in Paisley & Renfrewshire South who want to make a global difference, to consider applying for funding from a new scheme being launched by the Labour government.

The Development Innovation Fund (DIF) from the Department for International Development is a new fund to help smaller not-for-profit and voluntary groups be able to make a greater difference for the poorest people worldwide, with grants of up to £60,000 available.

In the past, smaller groups - such as a church charity, a Scout troop or a Rotary Club – despite doing impressive work with communities overseas have had to apply to government funding schemes which are targeted at bigger charities. 

Now they can apply for small scale support through Labour’s new Development Innovation Fund (DIF).

Douglas Alexander MP said:

“I know that there are many small groups in Paisley & Renfrewshire South who are doing their bit in the fight against global poverty - but are often unable to access the type of support needed to expand their work, or take their great idea to the next level and make a real difference in Africa and other parts of the developing world.

“All local groups, no matter what their size, can make a positive contribution to communities in developing countries living in extreme poverty. I am encouraging them to consider applying. They can find out more information and download an application form at http://www.dfid.gov.uk/Working-with-DFID/Funding-Schemes/Funding-for-not-for-profit-organisations/

”“From projects dealing with education, those working with people with disabilities and work with people with HIV and AIDS, the Development Innovation Fund will help thousands of unsung heroes to help make life better for people and communities in poverty.”

“In today’s interdependent world – the impacts of poverty, conflict and climate change affect us all. Tackling global poverty is not just a moral cause, it is a common cause.”