This year, we decided to dream big and apply to the National Lottery's Community Led Fund for a three year award. It felt ambitious, but with the amazing engagement we have had over the last year, and considering what might be ahead this Winter, it felt like the right time to take this step. This fund is perfect for our activities and aims, and we're over the moon to announce that we were successful!
The National Lottery Community Fund, Scotland Chair, Kate Still, said: “National Lottery funding can make amazing things happen in local communities across the country. This project delivered by Local Energy Action Plan (LEAP) SCIO, is a great example of community activity in action, showing just what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause or to help others. National Lottery players can be proud to know that the money they raise is helping to support this vital work and to help communities thrive.”
Our first year funding award is £55150 and that will help us pay staff salaries including sums towards two new roles; This will include a PT Larder Superviser post working solely on our
Community Larder project, as well as a PT Project Assistant post focussing on all project areas - The Larder, The Feel Good Festival and Diggin' It. Details of these positions can be found here.
The fund also covers other project costs including some of our volunteer Development Programme. Creating volunteering opportunities is a hugely important part of what we do; Volunteers are integral to the operation of our projects, and we want to be able to make that a fully rewarding experience. There are many reasons why people volunteer - some for the chance to make social connections, or because they're really motivated by our aims and the work we do; Others are looking for personal development and we can offer training and skills development which can improve employability. Our Volunteer Development programme will benefit all.
Our Volunteer Team is friendly and diverse. We can support young volunteers and facilitate Duke of Edinburgh Award programmes. This Team helps to guide our projects with their insights and feedback. Thank you to all of you, and thanks to National Lottery!!
If you're interested in volunteering please get in touch via communitylarder@myleapproject.org.
This award was made from The National Lottery Community Fund, made possible by National Lottery players.