A bitter fight for funding has been launched by 18 voluntary groups appealing against a decision which could put their services to thousands of people in jeopardy.

An overhaul of Bradford Council's controversial system for awarding funding has come under renewed attack, with groups complaining they have been left in the cold to face serious problems.

The new system is being adopted following a major row and demonstrations 18 months ago when dozens of groups challenged a new points system which knocked them out of the running for Council grants.

The overhauled system designates certain groups for funding which could flow for up to three years.

Officers say it enables such groups to plan ahead instead of having to apply each year, competing with other organisations for a slice of the money offered by the authority.

The 47 groups recommended for designation would share about £2 million of the £6 million available, with other organisations bidding for the rest.

Today, Councillor Ralph Berry, chairman of the Council's Community Development Com-

ittee - which will consider the appeals tomorrow - said the Council had always left the way open to appeal and the groups' representations would be considered.

The Holme Christian Care Centre will tell the committee that it believes the selection of the designated services is inconsistent and arbitrary.

The group says it does essential work in the south-east of Bradford.

Manningham Sports and Youth Club is also contesting its exclusion, arguing that its youth services and work on a drugs awareness programme help to create a safe environment in the community.

Also appealing for designated status is Age Concern which will point out that it provides services to 90 groups working with older people across the district.

Bradford Occupational Health Project argues on the grounds that it is the only agency to provide welfare rights advice, including representation at medical tribunals in the district.

And Bradford Rape Crisis submits that it needs the desi-

nation to maintain the orga-nisation's services to women and girls who have experienced sexual violence.

Groups recommended for designation - which means they will fill in simplified application forms - include the Bangladesh youth organisation, Bingley CVS, Windhill Community Association, and Eccleshill Youth and Community Association.

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