COMMUNITY groups wanting to promote mental health care are being invited to apply for grants to fund projects in Preston.

Cash up to £4,000 is available from Preston Primary Care Trust and applications need to be in before Friday April 11.

Catholic Caring Services, Tulketh Road, was successful in its bid last year and ran three groups for the over 50s with learning difficulties.

The groups aim to maintain dignity, security and independence in old age.

Providing a safe meeting place at the Deepdale Centre, Tom Finney Way, enabled the members to widen their social circle and learn new skills.

The groups took part in arts and crafts and day trips, focusing on fun and building communication skills.

Martin Layton, who managed the project, said: "Fun underpins everything we do. It's difficult for people with learning difficulties as they can't always get their message across.

"We tend to put people into boxes and it's difficult for those who are over 50, but not yet pensioners to access group activities, especially when they have learning difficulties.

"This gave us the chance to promote awareness of mental health and allowed members to get out and about, stimulating their minds and improving their well being."

The grants are available to voluntary, self-help, educational bodies and small businesses in two levels. Level one groups can apply for funds up to £1,000 and level two up to £4,000.

Application forms are available from Lyn Patterson and Preston PCT on 01772 645610 or from Joan Burrows at Preston CVS on 01772 251108.