East Lothian groups receive £2.6m funding boost
Voluntary and third sector groups, community councils, and area partnerships in East Lothian have received a significant boost of over £2.6 million to enhance their work within communities. The One Council Partnership Fund has distributed more than £1.3 million to 46 organisations to facilitate partnership working with the local authority, aiding in the development of resilient and empowered communities. This funding aligns with council priorities aimed at reducing poverty and inequality, acknowledging the invaluable contribution of voluntary and community organisations towards East Lothian’s well-being and vibrancy.
In addition to this, a further £1.3 million has been allocated to Community Councils and Area Partnerships to continue supporting their essential initiatives. The evaluation process for grant applications ensured that funding was strategically targeted towards priorities outlined in the East Lothian Council Plan, the Local Outcome Improvement Plan of the East Lothian Partnership, and other relevant strategies. Notably, the grants were issued to address and diminish inequalities across the population, with many community organisations playing a crucial role in assisting residents facing challenges such as the rising cost of living.
Some of the noteworthy projects that have received funding include:
- Battle of Prestonpans [1745] Heritage Trust: £20,000
- Bridges Project: £47,262
- Carefree Kids East Lothian: £13,600
- East Lothian Friendly Food Network: £30,971
- East Lothian Swim Team: £9,600
- First Step Community Project: £195,860
- Fraser Centre Community Trust: £5,000
- Lower Impact Living: £5,000
- New Beginnings Club East Lothian: £6,000
Furthermore, over £630,000 has been allocated to Dadswork, East Lothian Advice Consortium, Heavy Sounds CIC, North Berwick Youth Project, Pennypit Community Development Trust, Recharge, and Volunteer Centre East Lothian. These grants aim to strengthen these community groups and encourage them to explore external funding opportunities to optimize their financial resources.
The commitment to supporting Community Councils and the Association of Community Councils is evident with almost £132,000 being allocated to these groups. The combined funding for the six Area Partnerships amounts to £1.215 million, comprising both direct financial support and the influence over council services like amenities or roads services, reflecting locally agreed priorities.
Caroline Rodgers, the head of communities and partnerships at East Lothian Council, expressed her satisfaction with the continued support provided through the One Council Partnership Fund, stating, “The strong partnerships we have with our community groups and organisations allow us to support our most vulnerable residents and achieve our goals of reducing poverty and inequality. The dedication of these groups, along with the involvement of volunteers, is instrumental in maximising their impact on the community.”
Rodgers further emphasized the importance of the funding awards in acknowledging the outstanding work undertaken by these organisations and the significant positive outcomes they have generated. The achievements of these groups underscore the valuable role they play in enhancing the quality of life for residents in East Lothian.
