When the country first faced lock down South Lanarkshire moved quickly to amend rules on renewable energy funds to provide emergency support for voluntary sector organisations facing a sudden loss of income.

In normal times there are strict rules that ensure funding that is collected based on the income from windfarms is used for community projects in a limited area, usually up to a maximum of 10km from the site. However, In order to provide additional support for the third sector councillors agreed to set aside a portion of the Clyde Windfarm development funding to be used anywhere in South Lanarkshire to address the impact of the pandemic.

Among those to benefit so far are:

• Samaritans of Lanarkshire
• The Haven (Caring Counselling Communication Centre)
• East Kilbride Cricket Club
• Halfway and District Bowling Club

Carluke based Equitots also secured support. Lee Valantine from Equitots says the funding they received was a welcome boost: “The fund was an amazing support during the time we had to close and meant we could keep connected with young people in the community and continue an online learning journey around horses. 

“It has allowed us to enhance our offerings to include online coaching and qualifications.”

Equitots also used the opportunity to push ahead with the publication of their own book to help support their work with children and young people.

Hamilton based St Mary’s for All (SMFA) is a community venue supporting a wide-range of groups and activities. Chairperson, Alison Plummer, said: “As we went into lockdown the sudden loss of income was alarming, but the support we received gave us the stability and confidence to start planning for reopening safely and to support our community to adapt and meet the challenge. My hope is that SMFA continues to be here as a constant and much loved space in the community.”

Kirkmuirhill and Blackwood Resilience Group volunteers took a three-pronged approach to lockdown offering an emergency response, outreach to help support physical and mental well-being and community recovery.

The renewables fund provided direct support for an environmental art project for local children. Chair Lesley Speedie said: “The project gave local children something to work on together even if they couldn’t meet, we had some who were shielding and I know they really enjoyed being involved. 

“The project has given our young people a sense of pride and community ownership, and overall, it has given them a positive and productive memory to look back on.”

Further funding is available for third sector and voluntary organisations across South Lanarkshire under the special arrangements introduced as part of the pandemic response further information is available on the council’s website or by email at FundingandDevelopment@SouthLanarkshire.gov.uk