New funding for voluntary groups

SIX voluntary groups in Dumfries and Galloway have received a funding boost from the Scottish Government. The Loch Ken Trust, Dumfries and Galloway Disability Sport, Castle Douglas Development, Auchencairn Climate Transition, Dumfries and Galloway LGBT Plus and Next Chapter Scotland all received a share of £112,000 from Volunteering Support Fund. Aimed to help small and medium-sized charities recruit more volunteers between 2025 and 2027, the fund is tailored towards organisations which reach people who face barriers to volunteering, and projects that help tackle child poverty. Commenting on the funding awards South of Scotland MSP Emma Harper said: “Volunteers play a vital role in our communities, giving up their time to help others, asking for nothing in return. I want to thank all volunteers in Dumfries and Galloway for their selflessness. "I would also encourage anyone considering volunteering to take that step even if you only have a spare few hours each month. Volunteering offers the chance to learn new skills, meet new people and help others."