The Eilidh MacLeod Memorial Trust was set up in memory of a teenager who loved music
Organisations that bring young people together through the power of music are being invited to apply for funding.
The Eilidh MacLeod Memorial Trust has launched a new funding scheme to support youth music groups across Scotland as the nation prepares to open up following Covid.
The funding was launched just ahead of the fourth anniversary of the Manchester Arena attack which took 14-year-old Eilidh’s life along with 21 others. Financial support in the form of small grants will help music groups prepare for the eventual move back to in-person teaching, group lessons, public performances and competitive events.
Music groups and organisations are being encouraged to submit funding requests to be considered by the trust by 30 June.
Eilidh’s Trust was established in 2018 in memory of Eilidh MacLeod from the Isle of Barra who died in the Manchester attack on 22 May 2017. The trust supports music education for young people reflecting Eilidh’s own love of music and her musical ability and enjoyment as a piper with the Sgoil Lionacleit Pipe Band. The trust will also manage and maintain a permanent memorial to Eilidh and a garden of remembrance and reflection on Barra.
Suzanne White, founder of Eilidh’s Trust announced the support. She said: “Part of Eilidh’s ethos in life was to be a constant friend and to be there when others needed her. She was a caring and compassionate person who wanted nothing more than to make others feel loved and supported. As we mark four years since we lost our precious Eilidh we want her spirit to live on through her love of music by offering a hand of friendship and support to young musicians.
“We know that many music groups have had a tough time during lockdown and last year we supported several groups to ensure they could continue virtual teaching. As we are now starting to move out of lockdown and towards a greater degree of normality including face to face lessons and public performances, Eilidh’s Trust is keen to ensure youth music groups are supported through this transition.”
Suzanne added: “We are keen to hear from groups of any musical genre from across Scotland that feel small grant support would help their students grow and flourish over the coming months.”
Youth music groups that are keen to be considered for small grant funding should contact Eilidh’s Trust outlining the following details:
• The group’s background and history
• The nature of the group’s need and how Eilidh’s Trust funding would benefit their young musicians
• The group’s compliance with all regulations for safeguarding and protection of children
Interested groups should contact: hello@eilidhstrust.org.uk. Deadline for applications is 30 June.
