Boost for baby bank charity

A charity which supports families in financial hardship across Lanarkshire has been given a cash boost.

Baby Bank Scotland has received a cash boost from housebuilder Barratt.

They donated £1000 to the not-for-profit organisation for the work it does throughout Lanarkshire in supporting families in financial hardship with pre-loved baby essentials and children’s items.

The charity was chosen as the October recipient of Barratt Homes’ community fund scheme.

Jillian Thompson, manager at Baby Bank Scotland, said: “We were delighted to be nominated by Barratt Homes employees to receive £1000 through their community fund scheme.

“We recently had some of their employees volunteering with us and witnessing firsthand the type of work we do so it means so much to us that they chose to then recognise us in this way.

“Donations like this really help us to keep on providing the vital services that we do and we very much appreciate the support we have received from Barratt Homes.”

During its first year of service, Baby Bank Scotland, based in Carluke in Lanarkshire, had over 1500 referrals for assistance.

These referrals came from partner organisations such as Women’s Aid and also through health visitors and social workers who strive to help families ease the pressure of daily living costs.

Help can come in the form of nappies and wipes, or it can be much more substantial and provide items including cots, prams, clothing and footwear.

Suzanne Craven, finance director, Barratt West Scotland said: “As mothers, fathers, sons and daughters we understand that welcoming a new baby into the world can be a financially straining time which is why we were delighted to help Baby Bank Scotland as part of our community fund. The work that this organisation does across the Lanarkshire area is invaluable.”