Scottish Building Society support for Portobello project

SCOTTISH BUILDING SOCIETY FOUNDATION has announced the launch of its fourth round of funding to support charities and continue its commitment to empowering good causes across the country.

Following the success of the previous 3 rounds, the Scottish Building Society Foundation has awarded a total of 28 grants to charities, enabling them to make a life-changing impact on local communities across Scotland.

11 charities were successful in their application during this third cycle, with the initiative seeing grants provided to charities across Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Highlands, South Ayrshire and the Scottish Borders. 

One of the awarded charities, Highlands-based Partnerships for Wellbeing, will use the funding to give vulnerable adults regular opportunities to socialise and combat loneliness.

Jeff Zycinski, Manager of the charity, said: “It may seem simple, but our Friendship Club meetings and outings mean so much to those who take part. 

“It’s about getting out of the house, building a network of pals, having a laugh, maybe sharing a worry, and having new things to tell your family when you get home. It’s about living a long life well. The grant from The Scottish Building Society will help us do all of that.”

Other charities to receive grants include Urram; Parents and Friends of Ayton Primary School; Greener Peebles; Eyemouth & District Community Trust; Easterhouse Football Academy; S.I.S.G. Enterprises; Sunny Govan Community Radio; Arkaig Community Forest; Portobello Central SCIO and Aberdeen City First Responders.

A recent report from Foundation Scotland showed that following the first two rounds of funding, over 30,000 people had benefited from awards.

The next round of funding is open from now until Monday 21st October. Charities can apply for grants of up to £5,000 to power their initiatives and strengthen community impact. Scottish Building Society Foundation particularly welcomes applications that support:

  • Community facilities and services, transport, open spaces, affordable housing, community development, reduction of poverty, and care for the elderly 
  • Local community events 
  • Youth and education, providing training opportunities and support for vulnerable youngsters 

Launched in May 2023 by Scottish Building Society in partnership with Foundation Scotland, the Foundation aims to establish a best-in-class benchmark supporting community-based charities and groups. So far, 28 charities across Scotland have been awarded grants from the organisation’s initial fund of over £175,000.

Paul Denton, CEO of Scottish Building Society added: “As a mutual organisation owned by and run for the benefit of our members, we understand the importance of local communities and want to empower them wherever we can.

“Our last round was the highest number of charities we supported, awarding funding across the whole country.

“All of these charities support fantastic causes, and for many people, community groups and charities serve as a vital lifeline. We understand their impact, and with the support of our members, we are committed to continuing our part in helping them thrive and make a lasting difference.

“As we approach our next round of applications, I look forward to continuing our work to invest in good causes.”

For more information on the Scottish Building Society Foundation or to make an application, visit: https://www.scottishbs.co.uk/scottish-building-society-foundation

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davepickering

Edinburgh reporter and photographer