Community groups in Skye and Raasay are set to benefit from more than £70,000 in Community Regeneration Funding following decisions taken on 16 February.
Members of the Skye and Raasay Committee approved funding for two locally led organisations working to tackle social isolation and strengthen mental health support in the area.
South Skye Men’s Shed has been awarded £45,918.58 to carry out essential structural repairs to the roof of the former Church of Scotland Hall in Broadford, which the group recently purchased.
The works will ensure the building remains safe and secure while protecting a space designed to bring adult men together to share skills, improve wellbeing and reduce isolation.
The project marks the first phase of a wider renovation plan, with further internal improvements expected in future and members directly involved in delivering some of the work.
Counselling Care Role: Skye and Lochalsh has secured £24,700 to recruit a part-time Development Officer.
The role is intended to strengthen the organisation’s long-term sustainability and expand capacity in response to growing demand for early mental health intervention services in what it describes as an increasingly challenging funding environment.
Councillor John Finlayson, Chair of the Skye and Raasay Committee, said:
“I am delighted that we have been able to approve these funds for two locally led organisations which are making a real difference in their communities, notably supporting young people with caring responsibilities and the key issues of social isolation and mental health.
“The South Skye Men’s Shed is addressing a critical local need to reduce isolation and improve wellbeing among men in the area.
“CCSL is also experiencing growing numbers of people needing support for their vitally important service.
“Providing resources for local groups who support different community members comprising both young and older residents can provide the ability to develop early intervention strategies that ensure the lives of people in our communities are made better.”
The Committee also noted further funding allocations approved since its last meeting.
Braes Village Hall has received £3,000 for external wall repairs, while Portree and Braes Community Trust has been awarded £1,000 for its Speak Up for Gaelic project.
In addition, £39,868.16 from the Scottish Government’s play park renewal fund has been allocated to improve facilities at Uig play park.
Together, the awards represent targeted investment in local buildings, language initiatives, mental health services and community spaces across the island.
