THE area’s MP has welcomed the award of more than half a million pounds from the National Lottery Community Fund for a variety of local organisations across Dumbarton and the Vale of Leven, as well as Clydebank.

A total of £508,527 of National Lottery grant funding has been successfully secured by 17 local community projects across West Dunbartonshire.

Amongst the local voluntary and community groups celebrating a funding boost was Lomond Radio Club, receiving a £8,075 grant to support the purchase of radio equipment and delivery of training for newcomers to amateur radio at its studio based in Renton.

Golden Friendships secured £120,000 of funding for projects to tackle social isolation and loneliness experienced by older people and vulnerable adults across West Dunbartonshire.

The Big Disability Group was awarded a grant of £138,610 to support its referral and signposting service for people with disabilities, long-term health conditions and their carers.

Meanwhile, ISARO Community Initiative received a £149,591 grant to continue and develop its support work with people from ethnic minority communities in West Dunbartonshire – including advice sessions, a befriending service for vulnerable people and volunteering opportunities.

Dumbarton Shoto Budo was awarded a £3,775 grant for the purchase of team kit and participation in a national Shoto Budo martial arts training event.

The funding awards have been warmly welcomed by local MP Martin Docherty-Hughes, who last week held an event in the House of Commons looking at how the cost-of-living crisis is impacting the voluntary sector across Scotland.

He said: “West Dunbartonshire is home to some fantastic charities and local groups whose staff and volunteers work tirelessly to make our communities better.

“To secure more than half a million pounds of funding for so many good causes across West Dunbartonshire at this time is great news, and I congratulate all those involved.

“The cost-of-living crisis is a concern for the voluntary and community sector and the impact it’s having on our communities. The groups I’ve met with in parliament and locally in my constituency are facing pressures, but they’re determined to keep doing all they can to help.

“The National Lottery Community Fund offers a range of funding opportunities to put worthwhile community projects into action. I would encourage any interested groups to get in touch to find out what support is available.”