A NEW fund is set to be launched to build resilience and protect vulnerable people across the South.

On Tuesday, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) will be launching its £200,000 Resilient Communities Fund.

Non-profit organisations, community groups and charities will all be able to benefit from the fund which is aimed at working to protect and enhance the resilience of those most vulnerable in the distribution operator’s South patch.

Applications for funding of up to £20,000 will be considered by an independent fund panel with the deadline for applying on June 10.

Eliane Algaard, SSEN’s Operations Director for Distribution South, said: “This past year has been unlike any other and as we work to keep the power flowing for our 3.1 million customers in the south and support the green economic recovery from coronavirus, we’re also committed to supporting our communities; helping them to build their own resilience as we emerge from the pandemic.

“Since its launch in 2015, the Resilient Communities Fund has provided £2.8 million to 540 community groups and charities working tirelessly across our network areas. Community spirit has never been stronger, and we’re delighted to launch the fund again to make a real difference to the communities we serve.”