WIREDGOV

Projects in Scotland supporting socially isolated older people, providing advice for vulnerable families and addressing rural transport issues are among the latest being awarded National Lottery money.

The funding from the Big Lottery Fund comes from its £250 million pot to support people and communities to overcome challenging circumstances. (See a full list of awards)

Here are some examples of what has been funded across the country:

• From their base in Galashiels, £150,000, PND Borders will not only continue but expand their range of therapeutic services for women with post-natal depression throughout the region.
• An award of £150k to Monifieth Befriending Scheme means they can reach out to isolated older people who have recently experienced a bereavement and match them with a local volunteer befriender.
• Couple Counselling Lothian will provide a regular therapy sessions for families going through tough times thanks to an award of £91,500.
• Thanks to an award of £28,406, Mull and Iona Community Trust will continue to run the Ulva Ferry Community bus, a diesel-electric hybrid minibus, which provides a vital transport link for 100 people who live near or around the Ulva Ferry.

Maureen McGinn, Big Lottery Fund Scotland Chair, yesterday said: “Today we are awarding National Lottery funds of over £2,798,550 million to 18 inspiring organisations providing great support to people across Scotland facing challenging circumstances. These projects will reach people at a time when they most need support, giving them the confidence, advice and skills to look towards a more positive future. “

Big Lottery Fund Press Office: 0141 242 1451
Website: www.biglotteryfund.org.uk
Twitter: @BIGSCOTLAND #biglottery
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BigLotteryFundScotland

Notes to Editors:

• The Big Lottery Fund supports the aspirations of people who want to make life better for their communities across the UK. We are responsible for giving out 40% of the money raised by the National Lottery and invest over £650 million a year in projects big and small in health, education, environment and charitable purposes.
• The Big Lottery Fund Scotland is focussed on helping people and communities most in need throughout Scotland through its five-year £250m funding scheme as well as small grants schemes Awards for All and Investing in Ideas.
• Since March 2007 Big Lottery Fund Scotland has taken devolved decisions on Lottery spending, the Committee, led by Chair, Maureen McGinn plays a strategic role in the future direction of the Fund in Scotland.
• Since June 2004 we have awarded over £8 billion to projects across the UK that change the lives of millions of people. Every year we fund 13,000 small local projects tackling big social problems like poor mental health and homelessness.
• Since the National Lottery began in 1994, £35 billion has been raised and more than 490,000 grants awarded.