Organisations supporting children and young people in Edinburgh are to receive a share of a funding boost of more than £2 million announced today (Wednesday 21 January) by The National Lottery Community Fund.
Nearly £200,000 (£198,566) has been awarded to two Edinburgh-based organisations that support children and young people to reach their full potential through the funding programme Young Start, delivered by The National Lottery Community Fund. It awards funds from dormant bank accounts to projects that will make a lasting positive impact on the lives of the young people that they support.
Children and teen led creative organisation, Lyra, based in Niddrie, will use their £99,331 share to continue running their Teens at Lyra programme to support at least 50 young people aged 12 to 18 over the next three years, living in areas of deprivation in the city.
The programme aims to help participants develop essential creative and life skills to improve their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.
When asked how Teens at Lyra supports them, one participant, aged 15, said: “I take part at Lyra to have fun and express myself.
“Also, to build up skills to put stuff in my CV. I enjoy performing and meeting my friends after school because I may not have a chance to meet them otherwise.”
Anna Plasberg-Hill, Teens at Lyra Engagement Producer, said: “The support we receive from Young Start makes a huge impact on the teenagers in our community. Through Teens at Lyra young people can express themselves and gain new experiences in a safe, supportive environment, building skills that will see them into the future.
“I’m immensely proud of what our young people achieve – it’s amazing to see their progress throughout the year.”
Edinburgh-based ADOPTION UK received £99, 235 which will enable the continuation of their #E project, an award-winning service supporting care experienced adopted children and young people across Scotland.
The three year project will engage and empower 178 young people through age-specific social activities, skills workshops and personal advocacy opportunities.
This peer-support model will create a life-long support network for young people often facing health, educational and relationship challenges.
The programme has already evidenced positive outcomes around improved social/emotional wellbeing, increased self-esteem and skills development particularly in relation to self-advocacy.
Announcing the funding, Kate Still, Scotland Chair, The National Lottery Community Fund said: “It’s a privilege to support such a diverse range of essential projects across Scotland through this latest round of Young Start funding.
“Organisations such as Lyra, play a crucial role in helping children and young people, from a variety of backgrounds build their skills, confidence and foster a strong sense of community, which they’ll carry with them throughout their lives.”
Young Start helps young people aged eight to 24 become more confident and play an active part in realising their potential. Funding of up to £100,000 is available for youth led projects.
Groups can apply by emailing advicescotland@tnlcommunityfund.org.uk or calling 0300 123 7110.
Find out more at:
https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/programmes/young-start
