Stepping Stones granted over £80,000 of funding

A local project has been awarded over £80,000 of funding to work with local young parents.

Stepping Stones was awarded the cash from Young Start which is aimed at helping those aged between eight and 24 involved with 16 initiatives.

The project was granted £82,421 from the £1m pot.

Joanna Gorrie, 24, who uses the project, said: “It has been a massive support in my life since having my children and has allowed me to gain skills and qualifications while meeting other parents in a similar situation to me.

“I’ve really enjoyed getting the opportunity to be creative and develop myself.

“If it wasn’t for the service I would most likely be socially isolated and struggle to deal with the ups and downs life throws at you.

“I have accessed support from staff around debt, housing and parenting, and also often seek support from my peers within the group.

“It makes me happy to know that the service is secure for the coming years and that other young parents will be able to get the same opportunities that I have had.”

Young Start is given cash from dormant bank accounts and is run by the Big Lottery Fund.

Big Lottery Fund Scotland chairwoman Maureen McGinn said: “We are delighted to announce over £1 million in Young Start funding for a diverse range of youth-led projects across Scotland.

“We are keen to support projects which put young people front and centre in the development and running of services.”