Elderly support charity in £24k handout

The Laurencekirkbased charity Mearns and Coastal Healthy Living Network has been awarded a £24,000 grant.

The cash, from the Bank of Scotland Foundation’s funding programme Reach, will be used to part-fund social inclusion projects for those living with neurological conditions such as dementia.

Founded in 2002, MCHLN supports older people in the Mearns area, providing a range of services and activities designed to improve health and wellbeing, reduce the effects of isolation and loneliness and ease the effects of financial hardship.

It engages with some 200 older people weekly and has built a network of about 80 volunteers.

With the effects of the pandemic and cost-ofliving crisis impacting mental health, the funding will mean that the charity can continue to deliver a range of activities so that older people with cognitive impairments can have a better quality of life.

There will be a focus on increased and continued access to social activities and outings, as well as practical support.

John Duncanson, funding and development officer, said: “Older people on lower incomes, particularly in rural areas poorly served by public transport, can often find themselves isolated – a situation further compounded for those living with a neurological condition.

“Since the pandemic, the number of clients registered with our organisation has risen from 135 to 450 and we have seen a 180% increase in requests for our services.

“This grant will help us provide fun social opportunities and activities, as well as practical support – and the opportunity for family and carers to have some respite.”