More than £1.7 million is up for grabs in West Cumbria to projects seeking to help long-term unemployed people.

Projects seeking to tackle poverty, promote social inclusion and boost local economies can apply for funding.

The funding aims to help long-term unemployed people play a greater role in the communities and gain confidence and skills they can use in employment or volunteering.

It will also provide work experience and employment opporunities within social enterprises.

The funding is for voluntary, community and social enterprise groups.

For details of how to apply for funding, visit  www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/esf