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.

We plan to use the funding to support the Maybole Food Pantry by purchasing essential distribution materials, including vacuum packaging, kraft paper bags, and labels. These resources will allow us to safely and effectively package a variety of surplus and donated food items, helping us maintain hygiene standards and improve the overall presentation and durability of the food parcels we provide. The funding will ensure that we can continue to meet the growing demand for food support in the local area, reduce food waste, and deliver a dignified and reliable service to individuals and families facing food insecurity due to the rising cost of living.

Stinchar Connections is a community transport initiative which connects communities in the Stinchar Valley area. The steering group have received funding through Carrick Futures to run a timetabled bus service connecting Girvan, Pinmore, Pinwherry, Barrhill, Colmonell, Ballantrae and Lendalfoot on 6 days of the week. The group has also received Community Mental Health and Wellbeing funding for a Development Officer to help progress the project over the next year. Stinchar Connections is aiming to become constituted, open a bank account and apply for charitable status, however Colmonell Community Association have agreed to act as sponsor organisation meantime. NHS Ayrshire & Arran Health Improvement Team are also supporting the project by evaluating the first year of the pilot transport project. We have applied to Carrick Futures for a second year of the pilot timetabled service. 

The participatory budgeting funding would allow further promotion of the project by the Stinchar Connections Development Officer at local community events where she will have a stall to promote the service. This will help with recruitment of volunteer bus drivers for local trips, which will help the project become more sustainable. A budget for branded clothing has also been included, for the volunteers who will be helping to drive the buses for community outings. We have included a budget for a laptop and software for the Development Officer, as well as costs for printed leaflets and marketing materials (e.g. banner, gazebo, beach flag, pens) to help with promotion. 

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!

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.