Successful Applicants of Lochee Make it Happen Fund
Thirteen community groups set to bring about positive change in their communities have been named as worthy recipients of the Lochee Make it Happen Fund (MIHF) from What Matters to You (WM2U).
Following its launch in January, the Lochee Make it Happen Fund, which will provide vital funding to local community projects, closed for applications in February after a well-attended application period supported by community engagement. The fund is run by local communities for local people and enables families and community groups to set the fund’s priorities and design the funding proposal process for their area.
The Lochee MIHF panel, named the Lochee Takeover, has now reviewed all applications and reached the decision to fully support thirteen projects including Sew Much More, Wellbeing Social, Creative Wellness Club, Mini Cookers, Lochee Family Group, Lochee Friendship Group, Menzieshill Family Group, Lochee Connecting Carers, Dryburgh Community Association, YWW Young Volunteers, Harris Academy FP Hockey Club, Charleston Matters, and Lochee Residents and Tenants Association.
In total, £22,105 has been allocated to support community-driven projects that will make a positive impact in Lochee.
What Matters to You is supported through an investment from The Hunter Foundation and BBC Children in Need. The Make It Happen Fund is a vital part of the What Matters to You approach and has secured additional funding from The Northwood Charitable Trust, The Robertson Trust, William Grant Foundation and NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation.
Ashleigh Beresford, a member of the Lochee Takeover, said;
We’ve seen firsthand the passion and dedication of local groups working to make a real difference in our community. The variety of projects put forward, ranging from activities for young people to support networks for families and wellbeing initiatives, shows just how much creativity and commitment there is in our community.
It was especially inspiring to hear from groups at the information sessions and see them develop their applications with the support of local parents and panel members. We know that this funding will have a meaningful impact, whether it’s providing essential services, creating new opportunities, or simply bringing people together.
Geoff Leask, Dundee coordinator at WM2U, said;
The success of the Lochee Make it Happen Fund highlights just how important community-led decision-making is. This funding process isn’t just about distributing money, it’s about empowering local people to have their voice heard in shaping the opportunities and support available in their area.
The engagement from community groups, parents, and local stakeholders has been fantastic. The turnout at the information sessions and the range of applications we received shows that there’s a real appetite for grassroots projects that are designed and delivered within the community and make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
One of the groups that was successful in achieving MIHF funding was Mini Cookers, which helps support young people in the community by providing quality family time while learning new skills. Jasmine Arshad from the group said;
Receiving support from the Lochee Make it Happen Fund means so much to our group. This funding will allow us to start our project and reach people in our community, providing vital skills, education and support where they’re needed most. It’s incredible to see people coming together to champion initiatives that make a real difference, and we’re grateful to be part of this movement.
What Matters to You is now also seeking panel members for an upcoming funding round in other areas in Dundee. Anyone interested in helping shape local funding decisions is encouraged to get involved.