BRITAIN'S Got Talent winner Paul Potts is backing a �12 million programme designed to give communities their own voice.
The Port Talbot opera singer is supporting the Big Lottery Fund's (BIG) Community Voice, which was launched today — just days after Jai McDowall won this year's series.
"Britain's Got Talent helped me get my voice heard and it's great to hear �12 million from the Big Lottery Fund will be used to help Welsh communities get their voices heard too," said Paul who won the talent show in 2007.
"It's vital everyone is given the chance to have their say about local decisions which affect them.
"Community Voice will help empower people to shape their futures and make a positive, lasting impact for everyone."
The aim of the project is to put decision-making power back into the hands of the community.
Eligible projects could include those for minorities, disabled people, young people and other hard to reach groups.
People can apply for funding through their Local Welsh County Voluntary Councils (CVCs).
Mr Potts, who still lives in Port Talbot, has endorsed promotional postcards which will be distributed throughout Wales, urging people to contact their (CVCs), who are in turn expected to develop the projects which will influence local decisions.
Applicants have from now until Sunday, September 11, to send in their bids and BIG will decide which groups are successful.
BIG's Wales director John Rose said: "The programme will provide more of an opportunity for Welsh communities to get their voice heard.
"It is about people speaking out to influence the decisions which affect their community and their own lives.
"We want this programme to support them to become more sustainable and resilient to future economic, social and environmental challenges as well as developing a stronger sense of community."
BIG added that Community Voice will ensure more people can influence policy and decisions about services in their community.
The aim is that services providers will be able to work together to design and deliver improved services, and that communities will increase their ability to deliver projects of their own.
A longer term outcome is improved engagement and participation between members of the community.
postnews@swwmedia.co.uk
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