Borders projects supporting wellbeing and resilience, active lifestyles, disabled access and the implementation of social distancing measures are amongst 21 initiatives to share over £62,000 from the Fallago Environment Fund’s Covid-19 Recovery Grant Programme.
Other projects to receive funding include EPIC Peeblesshire (Exceptional Parents, Incredible Children), which has received £1,991 to purchase an electric cargo bike that can carry up to four children. The group comprises children with additional support needs and their parents and siblings, and the new bike will allow the children and their families to enjoy the many benefits of visiting parks and safe spaces.
The monies have been shared between charities and community groups, including Border Group Riding for the Disabled near Ancrum who have received £5,000 to create a path and hard surface parking area to allow children with complex needs and people in wheelchairs or with mobility issues to access a safe, calm area where they can watch the horses, socialise and exercise under supervision until they can return to riding.
Another project is Burnfoot Community Futures, Hawick which has received £4,700 to adapt its community garden to incorporate social distancing including access for the disabled. The grant will also fund planting and growing equipment as well as staffing to offer information and advice on growing food. Eyemouth Community Council will use their grant of £2,600 to widen two paths linking the town to the coastal path, encouraging their safe use for healthy exercise.
A full list of the grants awarded is available here.
Other grants of between £500 and £5,000 are currently still being assessed by The Bridge, which is administering the special Covid-19 fund.