Befriending group's future is secured

Befriend Motherwell started out five years ago as a one-to-one befriending organisation and has since developed into other areas of activity including group work and telephone befriending.

The award of £148,667 will ensure it we can continue to operate for another three years.

Project coordinator Liz Magunnigal: “It is so heartening to learn of the confirmation from The Big Lottery Fund of their support for our project.

“We know, at first hand, how appreciated our activities are but it is encouraging to hear that this is now recognised by such an important funding source.

“This funding will not only enable us to maintain our existing service but also, over the next few years, allow some much needed expansion of our activities.”

The announcement of the funding was made as Motherwell and Wishaw MP Marion Fellows joined Ms Magunnigal and Befriend Motherwell volunteers to visit residents of Glenview Court.

Mrs Fellows said: “I was delighted to meet with some residents of Glenview Court and the staff and volunteers of Befriend Motherwell.

“Important community focussed organisations such as these contribute so much to people’s lives. The services they provide to tackle loneliness are particularly important to the elderly community who gain so much support from Befriend Motherwell.

“This is why I am extremely pleased that they have been awarded Big Lottery Funding to help continue their extensive programme to support and bring the elderly community together.”

Big Lottery Fund Scotland chairwoman Maureen McGinn added: “I am delighted Befriend Motherwell has been successful in securing a Big Lottery Fund grant. The funding will make a real difference to people’s lives by keeping older people connected in community activities and helping them to build new friendships.”