Natwest has launched CommunityForce, a £2.8m grant fund to help local charities raise the publicity of their work and attract volunteers.

158 CommunityForce areas have been set up, and each will be offering three local projects the chance to win an award of £6,000 each.

An online public vote on Natwest's website will decide which three organisations should receive the awards.

Organisations and charities can apply for a CommunityForce award here between 25th July and 4th September 2011.