The Scottish charity, The Eric Liddell Community, has been awarded a generous grant of £109,000 from the National Lottery Community Fund to create a new programme of activity designed to support local people experiencing loneliness and isolation.
This award from The National Lottery Community Fund will be given to the charity over three years and is forecast to benefit 600 people.
Funding 18 volunteers and supporting the addition of a new role of Community Engagement Worker, the team will support local people to live fuller and less isolated lives. They will do this by making positive changes to their daily routine through participation in a variety of activities and outings such as weekly Wellbeing Lunches and the “Community Living Room” development, which are key parts of the Eric Liddell Open Community Programme.
Founded in 1980 in memory of Eric Liddell – the 1924 Olympic 400m gold medallist, Scottish Rugby international and committed missionary – The Eric Liddell Community exists to create a place where no one feels lonely or isolated.
John MacMillan, CEO of The Eric Liddell Community, said: “We are absolutely delighted and humbled to receive this generous grant from The National Lottery Community Fund.
“This funding will allow us to expand our reach and build an entirely new programme over the next 3 years, enabling us to continue the legacy of Eric Liddell, the celebrated Scottish Olympic athlete, who dedicated his life to serving others.
“No one deserves to feel lonely or isolated; we’re committed to ensuring this isn’t the case in our communities and we’re excited about the opportunities this grant presents for us to make a much-needed difference.”
The cash gift also signifies the fund’s powerful vote of confidence in The Eric Liddell Community’s mission to combat loneliness in communities across Scotland.
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 Eric Liddell Community, is a great example of community activity in action, showing just what can be achieved not only during the Festive season, but all year round, 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 which is making a real difference to so many.”
For more information about The Eric Liddell Community and its initiatives, please visit ericliddell.org.