Organisations in Whitehaven can now apply for grants of up to £10,000 for projects that help young people support each other during bereavement.

Grants are available through the Co-op Foundation’s #iwill Fund. The foundation expects to make about five grants in total and organisations have until 12pm on Friday, April 3 to apply at www.coopfoundation.org.uk.

Successful applicants can access funding for social action projects that equip young people with the skills they need to provide peer support. Grants could also help young people use their experiences as a way to speak up and recommend how local services can help other bereaved youngsters.

Head of Co-op Foundation, Jim Cooke, said: “As the Co-op’s charity, we’re delighted to be partnering with Co-op Funeralcare to provide grants through our #iwill Fund. Losing a close friend or family member is difficult at any age, and can be particularly tough for young people who might be dealing with other pressures at home, at school or in their social lives.”