Applications are being sought for a new £155,000 grants scheme which aims to improve the experience of patients across Forth Valley.

The ‘Investing in Health Grants Programme’ which has been launched by NHS Forth Valley’s Endowment Committee, is designed to make best use of existing funds and maximise the benefits for patients of ages.

The Programme consists of two different types of grant funding – small grants of up to £5,000 which will be awarded for a maximum period of one year and large grants of £5,000 and over which can be funded for up to three years. Small grants are available for disbursement throughout the year and large grant applications are open until Friday 27th September 2013 (for consideration at the Endowment Committee Meeting on 18th October 2013).

Grants are open to NHS Forth Valley wards, departments and services and external grant applications will also be considered from not-for-profit organisations and registered charities who are able to provide an element of matched funding for their proposals.

Priority areas identified by the Committee include Mental Health, Learning Disabilities, Elderly People, Spiritual Care, Community, Paediatrics, Maternity, Oncology, Diabetics, Renal Unit, Cardiology, Stroke and Intensive Care however applications from other areas will be considered.

 NHS Forth Valley’s Fundraising Manager Craig Holden said: “We’re looking for exciting and innovative projects which will improve the patient experience.  I hope as many groups as possible apply.”

NHS Forth Valley’s Endowment Committee – which operates under registered charity Forth Valley Giving – is responsible for administering all donations received through the Endowment Fund to NHS Forth Valley.

For further information, including copies of the application form and guidance notes, visit Health Grants.  Alternatively you can contact Forth Valley Giving on 01324 566081 or e-mail craigholden@nhs.net . The closing dates for applications is Friday the 27th of September 2013.