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.  

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 

upgrade of the showers within the stadium to a better standard 

the money will be used to buy parts and labour to upgrade all the showers

10 bristan bar mixers @£120 each

10 fixing kits  @ £15 EACH

LABOUR  total will  be £600

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

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.

Installing an Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) system will significantly improve the efficiency and sustainability of our community shop and café. It will streamline transactions, reduce errors, and make it easier for our volunteers—many of whom have limited retail experience—to operate the till confidently.

The system will also provide real-time stock tracking and detailed sales reporting, helping us manage inventory more effectively, reduce waste, and make informed financial decisions. This transparency is essential for accountability and future planning.

Customers will benefit from quicker service, modern payment options, and the potential for loyalty schemes—enhancing their experience and encouraging return visits.

Overall, an EPOS system will help us operate more professionally, support volunteer development, and ensure the long-term viability of this vital community asset.

We will replace exisitng flooring of vinyl and carpeting with non-slip vinyl which will be laid in one piece and will be safer and more suitable for all acivities.

The area to be recovered is approx 170 sq metres and the cost of materials and fitting is approx £5950. A partial grant would go a long way to help us achieve this goal.