Voluntary organisations are set to receive transport help thanks to a new fund, it has emerged.

The news comes as the Community Transport Association and Big Issue Invest have launched a joint initiative to help those with jobs in the charity and voluntary sectors to buy their own vehicles after securing government contracts.

Under the scheme, organisations will be able to access support for leasing office space or receive loans.

Keith Halstead, chief executive of the Community Transport Association, told the Third Sector: "Being able to offer members further funding solutions will be an immense boost to improving the sustainability of local public services for the most disadvantaged people in society."

The news comes after the local transport bill in the Queen’s speech included proposals to boost the use of community transport organisations.

Consequently the latest announcement could allow community groups to employ paid drivers, rather than relying on volunteers, news which may be of interest to those seeking jobs in the public sector and bodies aiming on using a regional recruitment portal to attract such candidates.

Earlier this year, it was revealed that the Energy Saving Trust is to offer community groups advice on how to start projects to help tackle climate change and save energy.

More regional recruitment portal information.