A UNIQUE grant awards scheme in Newport is inviting applications for cash help.

Newport Women's Forum annual awards scheme issues grants of up to £1,000 to women to help them in their personal development.

The scheme has been running since 1996 and all the money given away is raised throughout the year by the members of Newport Women's Forum, which is headed by Assembly Member Rosemary Butler.

Women aged 18 and over who live in Newport are invited to apply for a grant of up to £1000.

Applications can be made by individuals or groups of women.

Grants are given to help women in their personal development. In the past , money has gone to artists needing materials, women changing their careers and needing the tools to be able to do so, or groups of women launching services in their community.

Applications must demonstrate that the money will make a significant difference to an aspect of a woman's life.

Newport Women’s Forum Independent Adjudicating Panel decides who will receive a grant.

Funding will not be given for projects where other funding sources exist.

Application forms are due to be available from a number of places in Newport including: Newport Libraries, Newport leisure centre, community centres, community education centres and the South Wales Argus Office on Cardiff Road.

Alternatively use the contact details below to request an application form or for more information.

All application forms must be completed and returned by Wednesday May12, 2010 to Newport Women’s Forum, C/o Rosemary Butler AM, 1 Transport House, Cardiff Road, Newport, NP20 2EH For more information please contact: Gail Giles or Gillian Johnson on 01633 222523 or newportwomensforum@live.co.uk