Surrey charities helping people get back into work are being encouraged to apply for possible funding.

The Community Foundation for Surrey wants to distribute £15,000 to charities before November 2011.

The cash boost will come courtesy of the May Gurney Foundation charitable fund, with each charity getting the chance to receive £5,000.

May Gurney is a national support services company that works in partnership with Surrey County Council to carry out work the county’s roads and pathways.

Its foundation was set up in 2009 to support community based charities and good causes that help young people and the long-term unemployed get back into work.

The grants will be awarded by a board of trustees made up of both May Gurney employees and independent people linked to the charity sector. Charities that are interested should contact Emma Wolfe at the Community Foundation for Surrey on 01483 409230, or email info@communityfoundationsurrey.org.uk.

Charities should apply for the grant by Friday, August 12.