Fab first-aiders, tea party success and dining out to help out – this week’s Community News

Training could be a life-saver

YOUNG first-aiders have been praised by East Dunbartonshire MP Jo Swinson.

She visited the Strathkelvin Company Cadets in Kirkintilloch recently to observe their St Andrew’s First Aid training programme.

Aimed at 11-15-year-olds, the programme provides the opportunity for young people to develop their skills in first aid.

The programme also gives youngsters the experience of working at a range of events alongside adult volunteers, providing essential first aid cover.

Ms Swinson said: “Being a St Andrew’s First Aid volunteer is an amazing opportunity to meet new people, make friends, attend major events, and most importantly to be part of Scotland’s leading first aid provider and help save lives.

“I was really impressed by how the cadets sprang into action when presented with all the different emergency scenarios.

“Young people interested in signing up should call 0141 332 4031 or e-mail [email protected].”

Cadets are pictured with their MP, Jo Swinson.

Help yourself and a little girl

CARING staff at a Bishopbriggs restaurant have pledged to help a little girl walk unaided for the first time.

Restaurant chain Frankie & Benny’s – including the branch at Strathkelvin Retail Park – has pledged to raise £60,000 to help five-year-old Susanna Peterburska.

She has cerebral palsy and needs to have a life-changing operation in the US which will enable her to walk without the support of a walking frame for the first time and transform her life.

The restaurant chain is holding a nationwide fundraising campaign on June 30 and July 1, with the sales from every kids meal purchased going to the Help Susanna Walk Appeal.

There will also be other fundraising activities taking place.

Bank unveils grants scheme

COMMUNITY groups in East Dunbartonshire are being invited to apply to an innovative new £100,000 programme aimed at boosting local volunteering programmes across Scotland.

The Volunteering Grants programme adds to the Bank of Scotland Foundation’s existing programme which has distributed over £2m to more than 450 charities since its launch in November 2010.

Working closely with the Lloyds Banking Group Volunteering Programme, the initiative will ensure the foundation provides Scottish charities with funding and manpower to really make a difference.

The programme opened for two months last Wednesday and charities can receive up to £20,000 to deliver a volunteering project.

Kate Guthrie, chairperson of the foundation’s Board of Trustees and human resources director (insurance) at Lloyds Banking Group said: “We’re looking forward to receiving applications from a range of charities and will be looking to support those who demonstrate they can make a real difference to the lives of people and communities.”

The foundation receives £1m annually from Lloyds Banking Group to fund grants programmes and a matched giving programme.

Forms are available at www.bankofscotlandfoundation.org

Applications can only be accepted from charities registered in Scotland.

The closing date is August 15.

Tea party was tea-mendous

TRIBUTE has been paid to everyone who supported the Blooming Great Tea Party on June 16 in Chryston BB Hall.

Organiser Fiona Stirling said: “It was a great success and I would like to thank everyone who helped, donated and came along on the day.

“A total of £1,310 was raised for Marie Curie Cancer Care.”

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