It is hoped that the Big Lottery Fund, which brings together the New Opportunities Fund and the Community Fund to dispense half of the Lottery's good causes money, will play a key role in improving the life of disadvantaged communities.

Debbie Pippard, London regional manager for voluntary & community sector funding programmes at the fund, said: "The Big Lottery Fund is tasked with funding projects that address the needs and issues of people living in deprived communities. The projects awarded today are hugely diverse in both the work they do and the communities they serve. It is this scope and vision that ensures that Lottery money supports projects working at every level of disadvantage, helping to improve the lives of as many people as possible."

Groups that have benefited from these grants include Islington Age Concern, Mosaic Clubhouse in Lambeth, which offers a range of activities and supports for people with mental health problems, and Bede House Association in Southwark, which provides volunteering opportunities to people with learning difficulties.

For more information on the Big Lottery Fund visit www.biglotteryfund.org.uk