Community charities could be in line for thousands of pounds thanks to a foundation set up by the Oxford Mail's parent company.

The Gannett Foundation is offering awards of up to £5,000 for charitable projects that take a creative approach to community issues.

Charities need to apply before Friday, March 30, with proposals that could involve anything from neighbourhood improvements to youth development. Gannett gives out over £250,000 to charities every six months.

Last year, Dialability, the information and advice service for disabled people, received a £5,000 grant towards a specially-adapted garden at the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre, in Oxford.

Dialability manager Sue Butterworth said: "The money has gone towards developing the range of tools and equipment to help people stuck in a pattern of pain take up hobbies and leisure activities."

The Pathway Workshop, in Blackbird Leys, Oxford, which provides jobs for disabled people, received £1,000 from the scheme towards uniforms for staff, who make garden furniture and other items out of recycled timber.

General manager Jenny O'Loughlin said: "The staff were really pleased with their uniforms. It makes them feel like part of a team."

Only registered charities can apply. Grants will not be given to individuals, national or regional organisations unless the project addresses specific community needs, the promotion of religious causes, endowment funds, general appeals, medical or research organisations, multi-year campaigns or animal charities.

An application form and guidelines can be downloaded from our website at www.oxfordmail.net by following the link on the right hand side of the home page. Send completed forms to the Editor's PA, Newsquest Oxfordshire, Newspaper House, Osney Mead, Oxford, OX2 0EJ.