NEWPORT women are being invited to apply for grants of up to £1000 to help with their personal development.

The Newport Women’s Forum Awards, which started in 1996, aim to empower women and give them confidence to achieve their goals.

Grants of up to £1000 are available to women aged 18 and over who live in Newport and applications can be made by individuals or groups of women.

The annual awards scheme is run by Newport Women’s Forum which is headed by Presiding Officer of the Senedd and Newport AM Rosemary Butler.

Past winners have included a local women’s group which runs a therapeutic work programme for women who have suffered mental and physical health problems, which was granted £990 for keep fit equipment and a group trip.

A Newport sculptor was also awarded £500 to design and set up a website to enable her to work from home.

All applications will be considered and must demonstrate that the money will make a significant difference to an aspect of your life.

Application forms are available from a number of places in the city including libraries, leisure centres and community centres.

Forms can also be requested by contacting Gail Giles or Gillian Johnson on 01633 222523 or by e-mailing newportwomensforum@live.co.uk All application forms must be completed and returned by July 13. Forms should be sent to Newport Women’s Forum, c/o Rosemary Butler AM, 1 Transport House, Cardiff Road, Newport, NP20 2EH.