Charity is back on track after cash boost
The Erskine charity is celebrating after landing a £ 24,998 lottery windfall.
It’s being used to reopen and spruce up the activities centre which is used by younger forces veterans in the community.
The Er s k i n e R e i d Macewen Activities Centre is based in the old stables of the Erskine Estate in Bishopton and has lain dormant for more than a year.
And manager Debs Dickson hailed the money as an “incredible donation” and said: ‘We’re delighted to get the guys back on site, it’s been a tough time for everyone.
“The money from the Communities Recovery Fund means that we have taken every precaution possible, making the transition back to on-site service delivery, smooth and safe for the members and staff.”
The centre has been shut for 13 months and staff have been trying to keep morale going by staging zoom meetings.
It provides younger veterans with social, recreation and training facilities and the chance of paid work via Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Co.
Classes include art, Tai Chi, woodwork and IT, all at no cost to its members.
The centre closed its doors in March last year and adapted to a remote service.
Staff maintained regular contact with all members throughout the time in limbo, which they said has been “challenging”.
Debs added: “One of the key purposes of the centre was to combat loneliness and isolation, and the need for this service has never been more prevalent.
“With restrictions lifting, it’s time to start welcoming our veterans back on site.
“In reopening, all possible measures have been considered to ensure the safety of the members as the absolute priority.
“Funding from the Communities Recovery Fund via the National Lottery has provided an outdoor shelter, along with heaters, to allow staff to carry out as many classes outside as possible.”
Erskine will lay on additiona l t ransport for people who want to avoid public buses and trains.
We’re delighted to get the guys back on site, it’s been a tough time for everyone Debs Dickson