News - Playgroup boosted by funds from Community Windpower...
West Barns Playgroup has been looking at purchasing equipment to help local families and their children have fun, particularly those who might not have access to suitable outdoor clothing. The group struggled to find the funds to purchase the toys, clothing and fun items, so approached Community Windpower and BeGreen Dunbar’s Covid-19 crisis fund for help. A grant of £1,100 was requested and quickly approved by Community Windpower and BeGreen Dunbar, which means the equipment can be purchased, along with secure outdoor storage for the equipment. The secure storage will enable West Barns Play Group to have a bigger variety of equipment for children, as storage space is currently limited at the West Barns village hall where they meet. The committee members, their children and the local community had already ran, walked or cycled 200 miles, raising £400 in sponsorship, paying for insurance and Early Years Scotland membership to get the group started. The new equipment and storage units will provide the opportunity for lots of local families to come along with their children and offer various aspects of play both indoors and outside. Purchasing outdoor clothing will enable children to play outside whatever the weather and will be inclusive to families who might not be in a financial position to have suitable clothing. Diane Wood, community benefits director at Community Windpower, which operates the Aikengall Community Wind Farms in East Lothian, said: “Playing with family and friends is something our children are missing out on currently due to the Covid-19 restrictions. “When the restrictions are lifted it’s important that all children and their families have access to a wide range of equipment and clothing to help them enjoy the great outdoors again. “This is why we didn’t hesitate when West Barns Play Group explained what they were planning to do with the funding, ensuring they have a safe environment for children to have fun in. “Our £255,000 Covid-19 crisis fund is designed to help organisations ensure they can support local families, providing the resources required to ensure children’s physical wellbeing.” For more information on Community Windpower and BeGreen Dunbar’s Covid-19 crisis fund, please contact Cathleen Anderson at the BeGreen shop in Dunbar. It is usually open between Monday and Wednesday, from 9am to 1pm, and Cathleen is available to offer advice on energy saving, renewable top-up funding and other funding. However, due to Covid-19 the shop is currently only accessible by calling 01368 863720 or by emailing begreen@communitywindpower.co.uk. |
