Charity hits the jackpot

Bazooka funding

Coatbridge charity Bazooka Arts has hit the jackpot with a cash boost from the Big Lottery Fund.

Its three-year “Create and Connect” project will work with adults suffering from mental ill-health caused by loss, loneliness and isolation.

The funding of nearly £133,000 will allow Bazooka to provide a therapeutic programme of visual arts and drama, plus one-to-one support.

Zoe Brook, who will run the project alongside colleague Bryony Murray, said: “We’re so pleased to be given the opportunity to deliver this project.

“We know how well they build confidence and selfesteem, friendships and positivity, and give people tools to help manage anxiety and recover from depression and trauma.”

The same round of lottery funding saw Coatbridgebased Deaf Services Lanarkshire receive £140,000 to expand their work in supporting very vulnerable and isolated people who are profoundly deaf.

Its expanded service will include help with bills and GP appointments and signposting to other specialist services.

The Advertiser told last week how the Moira Anderson Foundation received £ 86,000 towards its client support team, who work with those affected by childhood sexual abuse.

Big Lottery Fund Scotland chair Maureen McGinn said: “Each of these inspiring projects will assist people at the times when they need most support, providing them with the tools, confidence and skills to work towards a more positive future.”