SWINDON groups are celebrating after securing more than £155,000 in funding from The Health Lottery.

Grants to the value just over £159,000 have been awarded to Swindon projects by the People’s Health Trust, through the Active Communities scheme and secured through the HealthTotal CIC, which is involved in securing funding for community groups.

The Swindon charities celebrating funding are:

Swindon Advocacy Movement, £37,098: A two-year project, developed by SAM’s members, compliments one of the group’s existing projects where people with learning disabilities befriend each other. An internet group will be set up for people with learning disabilities in Swindon to make them more connected to online services and leisure activities in the community.

Swindon Christian Community Projects, £41,503: This 24-month project is an extension of the group’s existing work. An existing café will be expanded and improved to offer affordable hot and cold meals delivered by local people, along with cookery courses. Woodwork training will also be run from the premises, where participants will make furniture to sell in the group’s shop.

The Harbour Project for Swindon Refugees and Asylum Seekers, £12,440: This existing two year project aims to provide a structured programme of leisure and educational activities for refugees and asylum seekers throughout Swindon.

Hometruths Co-operative Ltd, £39,464: A two-year project aiming to extend support services for women aged 16 plus who are experiencing domestic violence in Swindon, by providing a mix of one-to-one support and regular group sessions.

Park South & Walcot Community Centre, £29,370: Through regular activities at the Community Centre, people who live on their own and in isolation, are elderly, or socially disadvantaged, can meet others, socialise, and gain confidence to influence the programme of activity.

So far, HealthTotal CIC has raised more than £ 1,345,283 to support local good causes in Swindon and Gloucestershire.

Chris Lunn, director of HealthTotal, said: “It’s great that money raised by HealthTotal CIC is supporting such important local initiatives.” 

John Hume, chief executive of People’s Health Trust, said: “We are delighted to be investing in these local organisations with great ideas to make their communities even better places to grow, live, work and age.”

Active Communities is for community groups and not-for-profit organisations with an income of less than £350,000 a year that are seeking investment of between £5,000 and £50,000 a year, for projects lasting up to two years. For more information visit www.PeoplesHealthTrust.org.uk