Harbouring an urge to help

Harbour bosses in Perth have launched a funding initiative to support the Fair City’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged.

The Perth Harbour Community Fund will welcome applications from non-profit organisations registered within the Perth City boundary.

The fund will support community-led services which are delivering projects tackling a range of issues including poverty, stigma and shame, social inclusion, health and wellbeing and organisations that help people become self-dependent.

Cameron Macphail, head of ports and harbours for port operators David Macbrayne Limited (DML), said: “Perth harbour’s prosperity has been hugely pleasing and we find ourselves with an opportunity to do something positive for the city.

“The Perth Harbour Community Fund was created to make a difference to those most in need.

“It is also a fantastic way for us to connect with our community.

“We have worked closely with PKAVS Third Sector Interface for Perth and Kinross to design a programme that meets the needs of the area.

“The pandemic has placed a huge strain on people’s lives and there has been a lot of great community work going on to help those affected.

“We would love to hear more about these projects and would encourage those eligible to apply for an award.”

Perth harbour has been operated by DML since it was appointed by Perth and Kinross Council in 2018.

Since taking over, the number of ships using the harbour has risen from 12 in 2017 to 24 in 2020.

DML is one of the largest logistics companies in Scotland.

A multi-awardwinning ferry operator, harbour and ship management specialist, it is one of the biggest firms headquartered in Scotland, employing around 1,500 people.

DML, through its main subsidiary companies Calmac Ferries Limited and Solent Gateway Limited, transports more than five million passengers every year and operates 28 ports around the UK.

Organisations can apply to Perth Harbour Community Fund from May 3-31.

For information and how to apply, visit perthharbour. co.uk

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Cameron Macphail of DML and Perth harbour manager Fraser Wallace launch the community fund.