Charities and community groups are being offered up to £50,000 in grants through the council's Thriving Communities: Hounslow Respond Fund.

The cash is aimed at helping the voluntary and community sector (VCSE) deliver services primarily aimed at Hounslow Council tenants to reduce the impact of the coronavirus outbreak.

Charities or community groups are encouraged to apply for grants of up to £50,000 with applications open until 9am on Monday, 25 January 2021.

Cllr Katherine Dunne, Cabinet Member for Communities and Climate Emergency, said: "The pandemic has caused challenges for everyone and we are committed to aiding our voluntary and community groups who are a lifeline for many, helping our residents now and in the future.

"We are also very pleased to be able to work with the West London NHS Trust to help support our communities and address inequalities around mental health."

The council is working with the West London NHS Trust to deliver dedicated funding for community and voluntary sector organisations to support mental health and wellbeing for residents.

It is working alongside primary care, the voluntary sector and other partner organisations, Mental Health Integrated Network Teams (MINT) to provide a new community-focused offer that will include access to psychological therapies, improved physical healthcare, employment support, personal and trauma-informed care, medicines management, support for self-harm and co-existing substance use, and proactive work to address racial disparities.

Sarah Ruston, Executive Director of Specialist and Local Services, West London NHS Trust, said: "As part of the 'Long Term Plan' for mental health, West London Trust has an ambition to transform how mental health services is seen by our communities.

"We want to address the inequality in access to mental health services that is typically experienced by our BAME and marginalised communities and reduce the stigma associated with mental health.

"As part of this journey, we are excited to be launching a new partnership with the Council Thriving Community Grants programme. West London Trust will be providing funding of £200,000 for voluntary and community organisations for projects that support the health and wellbeing of people with moderate to severe mental illness.

"This partnership will enable grass root organisations who know the local population well and statutory organisations to work together under a shared value of caring for our communities."