Grants are now available for community and voluntary organisations who wish to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in June.

Dorset’s Lord Lieutenant and High Sheriff have both backed a new fund from Dorset Community Foundation, in partnership with Arts Council England.

Dorset is one of the network of community foundations supporting the Let’s Create Jubilee Fund, a £5 million programme to develop creative and cultural activities as part of the celebrations next June.

The programme is made possible with funding from the National Lottery, whose players raise £30million for good causes every week. The fund’s distribution will be managed by UK Community Foundations on behalf of their 44 community foundation members across England.

Applicants will be able to apply for grants from £750 up to £10,000, and are encouraged to partner with established artists, creatives and cultural organisations to develop their activities, to ensure the Jubilee celebrations give people across Dorset the chance to experience the best of the country’s culture while also celebrating an important milestone in the nation’s history.

Angus Campbell, Lord Lieutenant for Dorset, said: “This splendid Jubilee Fund is a tremendous initiative for us all. Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, marking, as it does, her 70 years of dedicated service to our country, the commonwealth, and indeed, the world, is the perfect opportunity to further stimulate and motivate the many creative talents present in our county.

“The fund will unlock and enable the artistic spirit of Dorset to participate fully in this ground-breaking event and should create a legacy, within the community, to be built on into the future. I congratulate the Dorset Community Foundation that has done so much for us in so many ways, not least throughout the recent pandemic, for leading on this fantastic initiative for the benefit of us all.”

Dorset High Sheriff Michael Dooley said: “I am delighted to support this excellent opportunity for the people of Dorset to celebrate The Platinum Jubilee for 70 years of Her Majesty The Queen’s reign.

“I would strongly encourage any group that is planning an event to acknowledge this wonderful anniversary to consider applying.

“Dorset is one of the corners of England that we all love, and I know with such a rich pool of artistic talent out there, we can really showcase this wonderful county to all. During my shrieval year I have been so pleased to work with the exceptional team at Dorset Community Foundation and I am thrilled it has been chosen as a partner by Arts Council England.”

Dorset Community Foundation director Grant Robson said: “We’re very proud to partner with Arts Council England to deliver the Let’s Create Jubilee Fund.

“We look forward to working with local groups and artists who will create imaginative and innovative celebrations to mark this historic occasion, and strengthen cultural involvement and opportunities in their communities.”

Arts Council England chief executive Darren Henley said: “We’re giving people across the country the chance to come together to experience the joy of culture and creativity in celebration of this historic milestone. With the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee taking place alongside the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Festival and the Unboxed festival of UK creativity, next year is set to be a magnificent celebration of our nation’s artistic achievements.”

The fund is open for applications until 28 February. Applicants will be informed of the decision on their grant by 1 April.

More details of eligibility and how to apply at dorsetcommunityfoundation.org.