Canal boat charity has hit jackpot with £223k
A CANAL boat charity is celebrating after being awarded £223,261 in National Lottery funding to support its work in developing a new Young People’s Project.
The Peter le Marchant Trust, of Loughborough, will use the funding to develop educational, heritage, environmental and creative projects for young people at its base and on the local waterways.
The trust is one of the oldest and busiest Canal Boat charities in the country and is supported by a dedicated team of nearly 100 volunteers.
It was founded over 40 years ago by Clare le Marchant to enable people with mental and physical disabilities and those from disadvantaged backgrounds to gain the health and wellbeing benefits derived from our local waterways.
The new funding – from The National Lottery Community Fund which distributes money for good causes – will be used to develop a young people’s hub at the base in Beeches Road.
Young volunteers will be able to take part in a range of water-based educational, environmental and heritage projects, gaining new experiences, learning skills and having fun.
While enjoyable, the young people will gain greater confidence, self-belief, and important collaboration skills.
Tim Marren, CEO of the trust, said: “We are delighted that the National Lottery Community Fund has recognised our work in this way.
“Now we will be able to fully develop our exciting next generation project which will increase and broaden the range of opportunities available to local young people.
“This is important because it provides a safe and stimulating environment for young people to develop new skills, gain new experiences and support their educational and training needs.”
Michael Hunter, a volunteer with the charity, said: “This is great news, volunteering at the trust has enabled me to gain greater confidence and so many new skills and experiences in a really fun and friendly place.”
Clare le Marchant, founder of the trust, said it was “wonderful news”.
“Since our earliest days our charity has supported and helped young people,” she said. “This project will enable us to develop and encourage intergenerational working and ensure young people gain the benefits that come from our canal boats and our local waterways.”