CHARITIES and community groups in and around Northwich are set to receive a boost as a company celebrates 150 years of manufacturing in the town.

To mark the milestone, Tata Chemicals Europe (TCE) has launched a community fund project to offer financial and volunteering support in the area.

Grants of up to £500 will be available for non-profit organisations, charities and community interest groups in the vicinity of TCE's Winnington, Lostock and Middlewich plants.

Now the company is inviting these groups to apply for a grant, with particular emphasis being given on projects supporting STEM activities or those raising funds for environmental or societal benefit.

Phil Davies, general counsel and compliance director for TCE, said: "We’re proud of our rich history, none of which would have been possible without the support of the amazing communities that surround our plants at Winnington, Lostock and Middlewich.

"The Community Fund is our way of helping these communities beyond providing employment for local people, and vital products and services. 

"It is an opportunity for community-focused local businesses, charities, educational bodies, not-for-profits and individuals to benefit from significant financial support.” 

"Pauline Yould, TCE’s HR and communications manager, added: "We pride ourselves on being not just a chemical company but a people-first company.

"We offer all our employees a paid day off every year to volunteer for a good cause.

"Our people boast a wide range of skills and abilities that we’re keen to offer up as part of the Community Fund package, so whether you need help building a sensory garden or looking for volunteers for a careers fair you’re planning, we’d love to see if our team can help."

The application window is now open until January 31, 2024.

Anyone interested in finding out more information about the scheme and who is eligible to apply for funding, can do so here: tatachemicalseurope.com/our-community/community-fund/.