ISOLATED community groups will find it easier to apply for lottery money thanks to the introduction of a simpler application process.

The new procedure is part of a bid to help vulnerable communities which includes the renaming of the National Lottery Charities Board to the Community Fund.

'Lottery money making a difference' its new catchline.

John Whitaker, chairman of the South East Regional Awards Committee for the Community Fund, said the application process often prevented many smaller groups from bidding for lottery funds.

He said: "It's more than just a name change. We want to reach out to more communities but in particular those who are isolated or fragile and for whom the opportunities are poor."

Communities will also be interpreted differently to encourage more groups to apply.

Since the Lottery Charities Board was introduced seven years ago over £110 million has been given to 1,500 projects across the south east.

Application forms have been shortened and the previous headings of 'Community Involvement' and 'Poverty and Disadvantage' have been brought together as one main grants programme.

Dorothy Buckrell, regional manager for South East Community Fund said: "Although the money available for grants is unchanged, what we hope to do is give out more but smaller grants.

"We also want to make sure that more ethnic groups take advantage of the grant."