Dickson & Williams Hail Support from the National Lottery Community Fund for Several Local Projects

East Antrim Alliance MLA, Stewart Dickson, and Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Alderman Noel Williams, has welcomed support from the National Lottery Community Fund for several local projects.

Mr Dickson said: “From funding kids residentials, to connecting elderly residents, to improving wellbeing amongst constituents - our community groups are engaged in some incredible work. I am personally so grateful to the National Lottery Community Fund for supporting these projects, and humbled by the love and support our local community continues to show for the most vulnerable in society.

“On behalf of the constituents of East Antrim, I pass on our sincere thanks to both the National Lottery Community Fund, and to all those people actively engaged in the projects that benefit from the Fund’s financial support”.

Local projects in receipt of National Lottery Community Fund grants, include:

[Spina Bifida - Hydrocephalus - Information - Networking – Equality] SHINE is using a £500,000 grant to support children, adults and families affected across Northern Ireland through providing advice sessions, peer support, and practical specialist support. Over five years the project will improve health and wellbeing, build relationships, support families with development, improve condition management, and help prevent health complications.

The Mae Murray Foundation, which is based in Larne, is using a £396,781 grant to enable people with physical, sensory or learning disabilities to access and take part in outdoor leisure activities across Northern Ireland. Over three years the project will empower people living with a disability of all ages and abilities to enjoy time outdoors with friends and family using specialised equipment and taking part in inclusive activity programmes which will improve their physical and mental health. Activities include surfing, paddle boarding, sea swimming, cycling, arts-based activities and inclusive outdoor festivals.

The 1st Monkstown Scout Group received a £10,000 grant to hold a summer camp for local young people aged four to 25 years old.

The 6th Larne Brownie Unit is using a £5,400 grant to run a weekend residential. This project will help young girls develop their personal skills, make friendships and become more independent.

Carnlough Community Association is using a £10,000 grant to facilitate the delivery of activities to improve the wellbeing of the local community and reduce isolation for residents. This includes trips, events and clubs.

Carnlough Women’s Institute is using a £7,105 grant to provide a drop-in service at Ardclinis Parish Hall. This will provide support for older people, opportunities to learn new skills and give a sense of community belonging.

Carrickfergus Hub Improving Lives Locally (CHILL) is using a £10,000 grant to expand their wellbeing workshops and training to meet the increased demand from the community following the pandemic. The project will promote good mental health and improve wellbeing in the community.

Harbour Community Group in Larne is using a £9,360 grant to provide a monthly programme of activities for older people in the community who are feeling lonely and isolated following the pandemic. This will help them make connections, feel part of the community and build friendships.