Published 25 August 2022

Community groups in West Dunbartonshire have benefited from more than £206,000 in Council grants to support vulnerable and disadvantaged residents.

Local groups were awarded funding to help with restarting costs and reduce isolation during the Covid-19 pandemic. 

More than £44,000 of funding from the Community Chest Grant Scheme was given to organisations to use for equipment, running costs and holding community events, while money was also used for community venue rental and much-needed caravan holidays for disabled children. 

Groups also received more than £98,000 from the Community Matters Fund for projects to reduce social isolation caused by the pandemic and support group members to safely return to activities. Groups also used the funding, with awards ranging from £25 to £3,000 to bring communities together and celebrate local achievements in the past year.

West Dunbartonshire Community Volunteer Service (WDCVS) supported 30 groups who received more than £63,000 in Social Transport Grants, helping to transport vulnerable and disabled residents to clubs and day centres, while nine organisations benefited from £193,537 from the Dumbarton Common Good Fund.

Councillor Daniel Lennie, Convener of Corporate Services, said: “This money has been a lifeline for residents who rely on these community groups for the important and essential services they provide.  . As a Council we are dedicated to ensuring financial help is available to organisations who play a vital role in supporting some of our most vulnerable residents.” 

Councillor Michelle McGinty, Vice Convener of Corporate Services, said: “This money helps to sustain the great work carried out by these groups which is clearly making a difference to the lives of many residents across West Dunbartonshire. I am delighted we are able to help so many deserving groups, which in turn is helping our residents be active in their community by participate in clubs, events and attend medical appointments.”