Charity recognition for Wearside volunteers

An organisation has been titled Small Charity of the Year at th e No rth E a s t C h a r i ty awards.

Easington Lane Community Access Point (ELCAP) is run by residents to help their local area become a strong, vibrant and active community.

They work closely with the Coalfield Area Voluntary Community Sector Network and are the lead organisation for the Coalfield Community Hub –hosting social groups and classes, as well as providing training, educational opportunities, childcare and wellness support.

The North East Chari t y Aw a r d s a r e d e s i g n e d t o i n c re a s e awa re n e s s o f such charities and, this year, had more than 150 nominations.

Cllr Claire Rowntree, the Su n d e rl a n d C i ty C ou n c i l representative on the ELCAP board, said: "The organisation works extremely hard every single day to ensure that our community grows, and that our residents are supported.”

S h e a d d e d : "I 'd l i k e t o thank all staff and volunteers who have gone out of their way to volunteer with ELCAP, especially during this very difficult time with the Covid-19 pandemic.

"The tireless work to support our community by our staff and volunteers has been integral to our area getting through this unprecedented time, and this recognition from the North East Charity Awards is a testament to everything they have done."

Cllr James Blackburn, chairman of the Coalfield Area Committee, added: "We proud to support the work of ELCAP. They are one of our key partners and are very deserving of this award."

Find out more about Easington Lane Community Access Point at: www.elcap.org. uk