Clydebank community groups and small charities are being invited to apply for a grant to help local residents improve their mental, physical and financial wellbeing.

The scheme will also provide a tailored support package by educating people about the harms caused by smoking.

The package of support is being offered by Action on Smoking and Health Scotland (ASH Scotland), a charity taking action to reduce the harm caused by tobacco, as part of its initiative encouraging organisations to pledge support for Scotland’s Charter for a Tobacco-free Generation by 2034.

Successful applicants will be given free training and resources to increase their staff and volunteers’ knowledge of smoking issues, access to free expert advice, assistance in creating an action plan to deliver their charter pledges and a contribution of £500 to cover salary, travel or material costs associated with the project engaging with people in their community.

Sheila Duffy, chief executive of ASH Scotland, said: “Tobacco continues to present a dangerous long-term threat to the health and lives of people in Clydebank who smoke and research shows that two-thirds of smokers in Scotland say they would like to quit.

“Many people, however, are not sure where to start. ASH Scotland backs Scotland’s Quit Your Way approach and want to invite staff and volunteers in local organisations across Clydebank committed to improving wellbeing in their communities to work with us to increase knowledge and develop opportunities around smoking and tobacco.

“We’re particularly encouraging applications for the small grant and support package from organisations in communities where people face the most challenges to good health, including mental ill-health or homelessness, young carers and people who are care experienced.”

For any community groups or small charities interested in applying, go to  www.ashscotland.org.uk/smallgrants or email enquiries@ashscotland.org.uk.