We plan to use the funding to upgrade our existing lighting system to a more energy-efficient solution. This upgrade will reduce our energy consumption, lower our utility costs, and support our goal of operating a more sustainable community hub.

Our charity previously secured ARIA funding to conduct a comprehensive Building Condition Survey. Based on the findings, the surveyor recommended improvements to both our heating and lighting systems.

Using a local installer, we have already completed the heating system upgrade. This proposed lighting upgrade represents the next phase of our improvements. The need for this lighting improvement is also an outstanding action on our Asset Maintenance Register.

By lowering our operational costs through these upgrades, we will be able to redirect the savings into expanding and supporting the wide range of clubs, activities, and events we offer to our community. Last year, we welcomed over 29,010 users to our community hub and now run 12 free regular community groups and an annual programme of community and family activities. The hub also acts as the cosy, safe, and welcoming space for the village and surrounding area all year round.

Project total cost: £2520 PB Funding request: £2000 FoDC will fund £520 

Through this project, we aim to enrich the lives of young people by providing access to exciting outdoor adventures and meaningful experiences they might not otherwise have. From single overnight stays to archery, abseiling, hill walking, paddleboarding, and orienteering, these activities nurture vital life skills—teamwork, leadership, resilience, and confidence—that will serve them well into adulthood.

Crucially, spending time outdoors and away from screens plays a powerful role in supporting young people’s mental health and wellbeing. Our activities offer a much-needed break from the pressures of school, social media, and daily life, creating a safe, positive space where they can grow, connect, and recharge emotionally.

With over 200 young people in our group, the addition of new leader tents will enable us to expand camps and overnight experiences year-round. This will allow more young people to benefit from regular time in nature, all within safe and well-supported environments.

Our adult leaders also gain, building their confidence and skills as they share knowledge and experience. Everyone involved benefits from the outdoors, strengthening mental wellbeing and community connection.

Thanks to our strengthened team, we’re now able to offer more overnight camping experiences—vital opportunities for young people to develop essential Skills for Life such as resilience, teamwork, and independence.

To make these nights away possible, we urgently need four new leader tents. Each tent will accommodate up to 12 adults on monthly trips, enabling at least 144 adult nights away per year. More importantly, this improved infrastructure will allow us to double the number of young people we can safely support on each camp—adding 240 youth nights away annually.  Without these new tents, our capacity will be restricted, limiting the number of young people who can benefit from these valuable nights' away experiences.

Funding will go directly towards purchasing these leader tents, enabling more young people to enjoy meaningful outdoor adventures. Your support will help us deliver transformative experiences in nature, inspire future leaders, and build a stronger, more confident generation.