CVS Inverclyde has awarded local charities and community organisations funding as part of the second year of the Scottish Government’s Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund.

In total, over £215,431 has been awarded to 15 organisations in Inverclyde which will use the money to fund projects to support mental health and wellbeing in our communities.

The funding is part of £15 million made available to third-sector organisations across Scotland by the Scottish Government to help tackle the impact of social isolation, loneliness, and the mental health inequalities made worse by the pandemic.

CVS Inverclyde CEO, Charlene Elliott, said: “CVS Inverclyde is privileged to administer and distribute this funding for its second year. Our goal is to strengthen and connect Inverclyde’s third sector and we’re pleased the Scottish Government has recognised the important role of Third Sector Interfaces and trusted us with this responsibility.

“The second year of funding again demonstrates the commitment of charities and voluntary groups in Inverclyde to supporting mental health in our communities.

“Funding for mental health has never been more essential as we feel the effects of Covid and winter illnesses, and also deal with the cost of living crisis. All of these pressures take their toll on our mental wellbeing and many people are being pushed to crisis point.

“The services being provided by our third sector are saving lives in Inverclyde.

“We are here to support all local third-sector organisations with funding and other areas of their work and we encourage all of them to reach out to us for help or guidance.”

The list of organisations who received continuation funding, building on their successful delivery in the previous year are:

• Brancton Community Centre
• Greenock Morton Community Trust
• Homestart – Renfrewshire, and Inverclyde
• Man on!
• Mind Mosaic Counselling and Therapy
• Parklea Branching Out

The list of organisations who received funding to deliver new projects in year 2:

• Ardgowan Hospice
• Families Outside
• Financial Fitness
• Kidron Project
• Lyle Gateway
• Moving on Inverclyde
• Safe Harbour
• Teen Challenge
• Your Voice Inverclyde

You can read about the impact some of the organisations made in year 1 of the fund on Inverclyde Life: https://inverclydelife.com/community-spotlight