A charitable scheme set up by the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) using any surplus income from its operations has opened a new round of funding and is looking for good causes in the private rented sector.

The TDS Charitable Foundation uses excess funds from the work of the not-for-profit TDS, such as interest accrued from deposits.

It has donated more than £400,000 to ten projects in England and Wales over the past four years and hopes to hit the half a million pound mark in the latest round of funding.

Applications are welcome from organisations and charities that can help promote best practice for agents, landlords and tenants.

Martin Partington, chairman of the TDS Charitable Foundation, said: “We’re proud to support the ten initiatives receiving awards.

“The private rented sector is often difficult to navigate but the projects we’re supporting will go somewhere to make sure that both landlords and tenants across the country know their rights and responsibilities.

“The TDS Charitable Foundation goes right to the heart of the private rented market, with grants aimed directly at benefitting tenants and landlords in communities across England and Wales.”

Organisations wishing to apply for support must submit their bids by 5pm on Wednesday (October 4).

Find out more on the TDS Charitable Foundation website.