The money would be used to purchase a laptop for the Hub, enabling us to modernise our operating system onto a digital platform. The Hub has grown hugely in the 4 years we have been in operation and, although very basic systems allowed the project to get off the ground, it is no longer sustainable or finacially effective to be reliant on mobile phones, library computers and photocopiers. Having the ability to administrate the Hub digitally would allow us to communicate with NHS and other referrers securely and consistently, our accounting could be completed in-house to a higher level reducing costs to the CIC on professional fees, and a digital platform would enable us to communicate with service users in a whole new way, which would impact hugely on our interactions, particularly with young people and those in remote areas with transport limitations. We would be able to provide ongoing support and tailored wellbeing plans digitally, work remotely to ensure the service reaches people at times of crisis without delay, improve accuracy and access to information, and generate in-depth reports for funders.  

Reducing the time spent on admin would free up resources for frontline work and would allow us to provide much more resiliance and adaptability in our future work, which is an essential element in the sustainability of such a fast growing grassroots organisation.  

With this funding we’ll run monthly art therapy sessions for unpaid carers in differing locations across North and South Carrick. To equip each locality, we are requesting funding for two identical mobile art-kits, each containing watercolours, paper, brushes, clay and tools. This will ensure that sessions in both North and South Carrick can run concurrently, fostering wellbeing, creative skill building and peer support. Art therapy offers unpaid carers a safe, non-verbal way to process stress and emotions, reducing anxiety and burnout. Engaging in creative activities promotes mindfulness and relaxation, helping carers to “switch off” from caregiving demands. Developing artistic skills boosts self-esteem and provides a sense of achievement, while group sessions foster peer support, reduce isolation, and build a community of understanding. By translating feelings into art, carers gain new coping strategies and emotional resilience strengthening their capacity to care for others and themselves.

We intend to commission a local tradesperson to construct a built-in storage cupboard in the upper room of McCandlish Hall. Funding from this grant will cover the cost of both materials and labour. Like many village halls, McCandlish Hall has faced ongoing challenges with storage, leading to equipment being left out between sessions. This new cupboard will provide a secure space for items belonging to regular community groups such as the craft group, Lego Club, and Badminton Club. It will help keep the area tidy, safe, and more welcoming for all hall users.

By improving organisation and freeing up space, the cupboard will make the hall more attractive for existing and future community groups.

Ultimately, this investment will have a lasting impact—enabling McCandlish Hall to remain a vibrant, multi-use venue that supports local participation and wellbeing across the community.

Purchase new fire doors and pay for the necessary preparation and fitting

From our much-loved Village Gala to community fairs, fundraisers, ceilidhs, and more, our marquee has helped shelter hundreds of memories over the years. But after years of faithful service, it’s reaching the end of its life – worn, patched, and no longer fit for purpose.

We’re applying for this funding through South Ayrshire Council’s your area, your voice, your choice! And your vote could make all the difference.

A new marquee would mean we can continue to deliver safe, weatherproof, inclusive community events for all ages – come rain or shine – and keep village life thriving.

It will be key in providing a space for future events, especially during the planned development of Barr Village Hall.

Please support Barr by voting for our project – and help us keep the spirit of our events alive.

One vote. Huge community impact. Thank you!

Provide walking tours across North Carrick working with local organisations to facilitate these. This will require purchasing a waistband amplifier (essentially a speaker) so that everyone can hear what is being said. Purchasing High-Viz jackets for those particpating as guide leaders. A portable stool for those who may require a rest break. 

We also want to manufacture a card game that will be unique in that is will be themed on Carrick and its recent and distant history. This will provide oppourtunities for families to continue their learning and fun at home while also providing a way for young people to learn about their local community and inspire them to get involved in the future.

Purchase new shelving and storage for the use of the groups who raise funds in the charity shop 

also freshin up the walls etc with paint 

At Carrick Rugby we are committed to promoting health & wellbeing through the sport of rugby in the Carrick area. Carrick Rugby is based in the communities of Girvan & Maybole & is committed to offering everyone the chance to take part in healthy activity, improve their social connections, improve their life chances & support their mental & physical health. We are immensely proud of our success in keeping young people engaged in both playing & coaching younger members & in helping to develop their careers in sport & in many other areas.

The direct beneficiaries are the young people and adults (male and female) participating in a fantastic team sport that develops confidence, discipline, health, social & general wellbeing. On a far wider scale the families also become involved & the sense of community that is built around the club has an impact far beyond the pitch, helping to break down barriers & build social cohesion.  We work with partners from the community and have built strong links with Active Schools, Girvan Youth Trust, VASA, Scottish Rugby, Girvan and Carrick Academies and Thriving Communities.

• Active Schools

“Carrick Rugby Club do amazing work in supporting their local communities, & our own Thriving Communities service, through the provision of programmes designed to reduce social isolation, improve mental health & wellbeing, & build community resilience. They support the development of young people & adults with skills for life improving employability & life chances, reducing poverty & increasing ambition & aspirations. We are proud to work in partnership with Carrick Rugby Club who are invested in improving the communities across North & South Carrick.”

The money will be used to purchase small equipment in a variety of sizes to provide opportunities for rugby at all levels. The equipment will be used for community based sport including Friday Night Diversionary Rugby, community fun days, tartan touch style rugby during the summer break, holiday camps etc. along with general training and playing.