A community foundation has awarded a record-breaking £1.5m in funding across the county to nearly 700 charities, community groups, and individuals.

Heart of Bucks gives funding to local causes that are helping improve the lives of people in the area.

The figure for the last financial year is more than three times as much as was awarded in 2019/20 and is an increase of over 400% on the number of applications approved.

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This increase in funding was vital, as many local communities, charities, and voluntary organisations have seen dramatic reductions in income in the last year.

A number have also been at the forefront of the local COVID-19 emergency response and recovery efforts.

Henry Allmand, CEO at Heart of Bucks said: “It has been a remarkable year for our Community Foundation, as we have surpassed £1m and reached £1.5m in funding during 12 months for the first time in our 20 year history.

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"I am extremely grateful to our staff team, volunteers, and trustees who have worked extremely hard to provide swift, critical grants to the local community.

“We could not have achieved this without our many generous donors and supporters, who have made contributions of all sizes throughout the year and helped us reach these important milestones in our journey.

"Our support for the community has never been more needed, so if you care deeply about Buckinghamshire, please get in touch to find out more about our work.”

The foundation is one of 46 members of UK Community Foundations.