The Fairer Scotland Engagement Fund is offering up to £500 to community groups and organisations with an income of under £25,000

Small voluntary organisations and community groups are being offered cash to put on events to debate how to create a fairer Scotland.

Voluntary Action Fund (VAF) is offering grants up to £300 for organisations with an income of under £25,000, and in exceptional circumstances will grant up to £500 for larger events.

The idea is to encourage groups to gather views on how to create a Scotland “where people are healthier, happier and treated with respect, and where opportunities, wealth and power are spread more equally”.

Keith Wimbles, VAF chief executive, said: “The Fairer Scotland Engagement Fund provides an exciting opportunity for grassroots organisations and community groups to gather the views of local people and help shape the Scotland in which they would like to be living in 2030.”

Applications can be submitted to VAF at any time from now until the deadline of 12 October 2015. Applicants will be informed within two working days of receipt of a completed application whether the application has been successful or not.

Further information, including the guidance and application form, is available on the VAF website.