The funding was distributed by a local action group. 

Projects across Dumfries and Galloway have been awarded £626,895 to support community facilities and mitigate the impact of the cost-of-living crisis.

The Community Led Local Development (CLLD) programme was open to Dumfries and Galloway-based charities, constituted community groups, co-operatives, public sector organisations, small and medium-sized enterprises, community interest companies, and community benefit societies.

The funding was split into a Small Revenue Grants Programme open to applications up to £3,000 with 13 applications funded totalling £33,983.98. A Main Revenue and Capital Grants Programme saw up to £60,000 available with 28 applications funded totalling £56,000 capital and £536,911.59 in revenue.

A Local Action Group (LAG) made up of representatives from the third, public, and private sectors decided what applications were successful, with administrative support from Third Sector Dumfries and Galloway (TSDG).

The four priorities within Dumfries and Galloway including enabling community facilities and assets to make changes in pursuit of becoming carbon neutral, as well as supporting activities that enable small communities to avoid further loss of amenities.

LAG chair Harry Harbottle said: “The CLLD Fund provides a vital support line for many community projects, particularly those that support the most vulnerable in our society. We have been amazed by the creativity that voluntary sector groups have demonstrated in their efforts to tackle the effects of declining public services and enduring poverty.

“We have also been able to fund local environmental projects that assist communities protect and enhance neighbourhood assets and prepare them for a more carbon neutral future.

“We look forward to next year’s allocation. CLLD will continue to work with TSDG to ensure that this fund is spread evenly across the region and demonstrate what a relatively small amount of money can have a big effect on many communities.”