Groups benefit from National Lottery grants

Groups across Renfrewshire received their share of over £900,000 in awards from the National Lottery Community Scotland Fund Scotland.

Grants totalling £926,143 were handed to 22 good causes in the area.

Erskine Hospital received a £192,833 grant which will go towards delivering services for veterans at the Erskine Reid Macewen Activities Centre, Bishopton.

A hospital spokesperson said:“The amount received will fund staff salaries over the next three years. Awarded through the fund’s improving lives programme, which aims to help people overcome challenging circumstances and become more resilient, the grant couldn’t be more welcome.”

Paisley’s Wynd Centre received £164,799 to maintain and expand its counselling service, finally achieving the goal of providing an all-age service as a response to demand from the local community.

Lochwinnoch Arts Festival was grateful for £23,000 and are to use the cash to deliver a whole-village multi-generational arts project which aims to involve residents regardless of where they are in their artistic journey.

The project will culminate in an album and local concerts.

Renfrew Association of Growers and Gardeners received £114,970 which will be used by the group to develop its community-garden activities by retaining the services of a seasonal gardener and hiring a new gardens coordinator over the next two years.

A portion of funding will also go towards improving the facilities.

The Renfrew Over-50s swimming club has received £3,800 and will take members to social dances and out on bus trips.

The Welcoming Renfrewshire Families Group received a £5,600 grant which will help to bring local and new families together in a cultural showcase in Renfrew – enabling interactions between the new arrivals and local people – to improve the integration of new families.

Scotland chair of The National Lottery Community Fund, Kate Still, said:“This multi-million pound investment will improve the lives of thousands of Scots whilst keeping vital community services open and supporting those facing tough choices and challenges.”