Galashiels is celebrating a significant boost for local organisations, with new funding supporting projects that are making a real difference across the town.
Supporting Young People Through Creativity
During a recent visit, Scotland’s Culture Secretary Angus Robertson spent time at the TD1 Youth Hub at Ladhope Vale, seeing first hand the impact of Scottish Government support in the community.
The hub has received £23,572 through the Creative Communities Scotland fund for an ambitious project titled Chromonauts: Demolition Art. The year long programme is designed to support young people who face barriers to taking part in creative activities, giving them the opportunity to shape and lead visual arts projects of their own.
A key aim is to transform overlooked areas of Galashiels into vibrant, creative spaces, helping young people leave a visible and lasting mark on the town.
Speaking during his visit, Mr Robertson highlighted the wider impact of the initiative, noting the difference it is already making not only for those involved, but for the community as a whole.
Backing Health, Wellbeing and Active Travel
This investment in creativity is being matched by further support for health, wellbeing and active travel through another local success story.
Hike & Bike, the Galashiels based charity founded by Angela and George Crow, has secured £90,000 from the National Lottery Community Fund. The funding will help the organisation continue and expand its work encouraging people of all ages to get out walking and cycling.
The funding will support staffing at the hub, outreach work over the next three years, and essential improvements to their base at Douglas Bridge. It will also strengthen a wide range of activities already enjoyed by the community, from group walks and bike rides to maintenance sessions, training opportunities and inclusive programmes such as dementia friendly walks.
Together, these two funding awards highlight the strength of community led work in Galashiels. From creative projects led by young people to initiatives that promote healthier, more connected lifestyles, investment is helping to build a more vibrant and inclusive town.
