Kendal-based charity, Bendrigg Trust, receives a share of a £1.2 million funding pot from the ScottishPower Foundation, which champions benevolent work in local communities throughout the UK.
Applying to the Foundation for funding is highly competitive each year. The charities that are successful in securing funding show passion, skill and commitment to making a positive change in their communities.
The Foundation was set up in 2013 to make a positive difference to the lives of people in communities throughout the UK and this year will fund a total of 21 projects in regions the length and breadth of the country.
Among this year’s beneficiaries is Bendrigg Trust, a specialist outdoor centre who provide adventure activities for disabled people. The charity has been awarded £96,102 towards their Adventure For All project.
Melanie Hill, Executive Officer and Trustee at the ScottishPower Foundation, said: “At the ScottishPower Foundation, we’re passionate about supporting causes that really make a difference for communities, committed to fighting climate change, and dedicated to helping young people achieve their full potential for a brighter future. The charities we’re funding this year do all of that – and more – carrying out exceptional work, often in challenging circumstances, as they strive to make lives better.
“We recognise that now, more than ever, people are relying on charities and their services and we’re very proud to support these efforts in such a meaningful way. We’ll continue to work closely with our charity partners to help maximise the impact of our ScottishPower Foundation funding to achieve the best possible outcomes for people and communities across the UK.”
Martha Wood, Fundraising and Marketing Officer at the Bendrigg Trust, said: “Our project was originally split into 2 sections, with £45,000 of sponsorship enabling disabled people who would otherwise not be able to afford a trip to Bendrigg the opportunity for adventure, and the remaining funds supporting the improvement of our services and resources specifically for people with Hidden Disabilities such as hearing or speech impairments, and/or learning disabilities.
“With the Covid-19 pandemic hitting earlier this year, we had to close the centre and many of our projects and services have been adversely impacted. This means that our Hidden Disabilities project has had to be postponed however the ScottishPower Foundation kindly agreed that these funds could be redistributed to cover our unavoidable core costs during this incredibly difficult time for charities.
“We are very grateful for their generosity and flexibility as it means that we have a much stronger chance of being able to survive and welcome back clients, who after prolonged periods of isolation, will undoubtedly need to access our services more than ever before.”
The ScottishPower Foundation was established in 2013 to make a significant and lasting contribution to society, enhancing the lives of people living in communities throughout the UK. It provides funding to help support the advancement of education, environmental protection, arts and culture and citizenship. It also supports charities who aim to provide relief from poverty, disability, or other disadvantages.