THE SEARCH is on for Lottery-funded good causes in Hounslow ahead of the annual National Lottery Awards later this year.


The people of Hounslow are being encouraged to nominate local good causes to represent the area when voting for the prestigious award begins.

A total of £7.2 million has been spent on National Lottery projects in the area over the last year, new figures show. However, £7m of that went to the Rambert Dance Company, based in Chiswick, to help build its new facilities on London's Southbank.

The National Lottery awards are open to any Lottery-funded organisation, big or small. Finalists will get the chance to have their work recognised at the star-studded National Lottery award ceremony, televised live on BBC One in October.

One project to have received funding in Hounslow over the last year is the Tasha Foundation, which received £10,000 to offer training to carers of people with disabilities, substance abuse and mental health issues.

Audrey D'Costa, the charity's chief executive, said: "The cuts mean these are difficult times for a medium-sized charity like us. It would be great for both us and our clients if we could be recognised for the work we do."

Other Lottery-funded projects in the area include the Southall Health Improvement Project, which received £9,900 to help train low-income and educationally disadvantaged women; Norwood Green Nursery School, which received £10,000 to provide sensory-stimulating exercise for children with special needs and hearing impairments; and Amber Training and Advisory Services, which received £6,200 to run citizenship courses.

National Lottery draw host Jenni Falconer urged Hounslow residents to nominate local projects.

"A variety of Lottery-funded projects have touched the lives of many in Hounslow," she said.

"So if you know of a project that is making an outstanding impact in your community, we want to hear from you."

To nominate a Lottery-funded project, visit http://www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/awards or call 020 7293 2128. Entries must be received by 5pm next Monday, March 12.