Appeal to supporters to splash the cash

THE Big Splash, Canal Charities Recovery Fund, is a fundraising appeal on behalf of the many waterway and canal-based charities operating in local communities on and along Scotland’s canals.

The future of these charities, mostly run by volunteers – which provide vital opportunities and support for communities and local people, often disadvantaged, with disabilities, or simply unable to otherwise enjoy the inland waterways – is threatened. The prolonged lockdown has had considerable financial impact. Many have had their income decimated or drastically reduced, while operating expenses have continued.

Scottish Waterways for All (SWfA), an advisory body to Scottish Canals, is co-ordinating the Big Splash. This unique campaign allows locals and communities to support their favourite local charity, rather than the more usual scenario where funds are pooled and shared out, sometimes too thinly to make any difference.

Stuart Rennie of SWfA explained: “This is important as many of these charities support their local communities. It is also acknowledged that the canals make a strong contribution to the health and well-being of those that live within a short distance, and are able to benefit from life on or alongside the water.

“It is sometimes said that the easiest way to slow down in our fast-paced world is to travel at 4mph, the speed limit on our canals. The launch of the Big Splash will allow local communities, and others who have enjoyed the canals over the years, to give their support, and help bring life back on to the water and towpaths."

The common thread running through the work of all these organisations is that they make a real difference to the lives of individuals, families and communities through activity on or around the canals. As we come out of lockdown, their work will be more important than ever. You can read more about the Big Splash and the charities involved at scv-awards. co.uk, where you can also donate to your favourite charity.