Shailesh Vara MP is encouraging local community groups across North West Cambridgeshire to celebrate the centenary of voting rights for women through funds provided by the Women’s Suffrage Centenary Grant Scheme.

Next year marks the centenary of voting rights being extended to women for the first time. In recognition, the Chancellor has announced a £5 million fund to mark the occasion.

The money is intended to fund projects that raise awareness of this crucial milestone in our history and inspire people to play their part in building an ever more diverse political system for the future.

The scheme will provide small grants to support local celebratory events as well as larger grants of up to £125,000 for projects that increase young people’s knowledge of, and engagement with democracy; as well as encourage more women to participate in public life.

Further details about the application process will be released shortly.

Mr Vara said:

“This is a wonderful opportunity to remember the bravery of the suffrage movement and inspire a new generation with their story.

It would be great to see a variety of events throughout the year in North West Cambridgeshire and I would encourage local residents to apply for funding.”