Fund to be launched to help charities in their Brexit work across the EU

The UK Foreign Office has announced plans for an EU-wide fund to provide project support to non-profit groups working with Britons ahead of Brexit.

The British government says it wants to support those who may find it harder to complete paperwork - focusing in particular on pensioners or disabled people, those living in remote areas or with mobility difficulties, and those needing assistance with translation.

It comes on top of the work already being carried out by British Embassy staff in EU countries. 1.5m pounds (1.67m euros) will be available initially, with the possibility of the same amount next year if the scheme goes well. The money will be divided across the EU.

Scheme organisers are currently hearing initial feedback from groups that are potentially interested before a launch of bidding later this month. A minimum grant level of 90,000 pounds is anticipated, the Foreign Office said. A spokesperson added, "It is up to the organisations to identify the activities they think would best support UK nationals applying for residency."

Information, including about a series of online briefings is available here.